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Shiatsu is yet another treatment that uses the traditional Chinese concept of the flow of qi, or life force, within the body, yet without involving needles. Shiatsu actually originated in Japan, and the word shiatsu comes from the word shi meaning finger, and atsu meaning pressure, although hands, elbows, and even feet and knees can be used to appy the pressure to the body. The pressure can range from gentle to powerful, but always within the range of comfort of the person being treated.

Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese hands-on therapy which is based on anatomical and physiological theory, incorporating Japanese massage traditions, and ideas from Chinese traditional medicine. Shiatsu is widely practised in Japan, and to receive shiatsu is a very relaxing and calming experience. Many practitioners of acupuncture also practice shiatsu.

It is probably because of its ability to induce feelings of calmness that shiatsu has come to be used in smoking cessation, and the anecdotal evidence is that there seems to be some degree of success, although, to my knowledge, no formal scientific research has been done into whether shiatsu is seriously effective or not in helping people to give up smoking.

So, as with many methods that may or may not help you to quit smoking, the answer probably is to give it a try, and see if it helps you personally or not. Much of the efficacy of shiatsu may well be down to the fact that it just helps you to relax, and accept life without cigarettes.

Filed under: Treatment Options