Two techniques of  acupressure  are  the  "Shiatsu," and the "Jin Shin." Shiatsu acupressure, the most commonly used therapy, is notated for its vigorous and firm pressure application; while, the Jin Shin acupressure  technique is a more gentle form whereby points are softly held for a moment or two. A typical acupressure session is done in a relaxing environment and does not require removal of the client's clothing.

Acupressure  is  a  way  of  accessing  and  releasing  blocked  or  congested energy centres in the body. Many varieties  of  acupressure  have  been  developed over time and the term refers to any of these techniques which uses:
* light to medium pressure
* fingers or hands (sometimes elbows, knees, or feet)
* the same points used in acupunture. i.e. acupoints on the energy pathways called Meridians.
* Techniques such as Shiatsu, Jin Shin, So-In, Acu-Yoga, Tui Na, Acupressure First Aid.

It  is  thought  that  Acupressure  developed  out of  the human instinct to hold or rub the part of the body that is hurt. We often put our hands to our heads when we have a headache, or hold our backs when they ache. These would be an unconscious form of self-acupressure.

Origins:-
The  ancient  Chinese  developed  a  system  to  cure  specific  ailments. This  resulted  in a form of rejuvenation through  self-massage. Eventually, the Chinese evolved a system of diagnosis and treatment for a more complete medical approach. Combining centuries of observation and experimentation, with energy theory and  points, this developed into theories involving acupressure, acupuncure, omoxibustion (using heat on acupunture points), and herbology. The meeting of Chinese medicine with Japanese medicine resulted in certain  techniques  from  which Shiatsu  emerged.  Shiatsu, a  rhythmic  series  of  finger  pressure  over   the   entire  body  along  the  energetic meridians, also includes stretching and tapping. From the early 1900's these techniques developed further. From Jin shin Jyutsu to Jitsu. Then Jin Shin Do, they were incorporated and used in the West more  and  more. Today these have blossomed into several individualised forms, some of which have been trademarked

Traditional  Chinese  Medicine  (TCM)  that  also  includes  acupuncture. (Interestingly, the use  of  acupressure predates acupuncture by some 2,500 years.) Unlike acupuncture it does not involve the use of NEEDLES. This medical science is practiced with the use of only one human tool: the thumb. Acupressure is a way  of  accessing and  releasing  blocked  or  congested  energy  centers  in  the  body. These  energy centers or Acupoints lie on energy pathways called Meridians, which further stimulate corresponding glands. What happens when acupoints become blocked-
1. On a physical level - you experience pain or discomfort in your body
2. On an emotional level - you may become frustrated or irritable due to tense mind
3. On  a  spiritual  (energetic) level - you  may  experience  a sense of vulnerability, have difficulty knowing your purpose in life.

The ailments that can be cured with acupressure:-
The Relief of Daily Stress Tend muscular pain
Tension Cramping or Spasms
Headaches Neck & Shoulder Pain
Aches and Pains Allergies
Migraines PMS
Menopausal Imbalances Fatigue
Anxiety Insomnia
Digestive Problems Nausea
Gastro-Intestinal Problems Eye Strain
Back Pain Chronic Conditions