There are many terms to describe massage chairs. Commonly, you can find robotic massage chairs or shiatsu massage chairs. There are many different terms which can cause confusion for those looking for a massage chair. Shiatsu massage chairs provide a shiatsu massage therapy. This is a massage therapy that origins are in Japan. Let us first explore shiatsu massage then we can make sure that any shiatsu labeled chair actually qualifies for this designation.
Shiatsu massage is a branch of ancient Chinese medicine which was developed in Japan over many centuries. Acupuncture has been used since ancient times, but the use of pressure instead of needles is acupressure. The Japanese healers have practiced many ways to heal the body and to reduce aches, pains and general discomfort. This particular massage therapy developed by using pressure applied to different areas to unblock and enhance energy flow. Through much trial and error, the Japanese healers found specific areas now called acupressure points which were found to help to heal the body.
As the pressure points were being discovered and correlated to different body parts, massage therapies were used in conjunction. Massage techniques such as chopping and kneading were used. Chopping helps stimulate the muscles to increase blood and lymph circulation. Kneading was found to elongate the muscles to help increase flexibility and healing after physical exertion. The use of pressure points where firm pressure is used with either chopping and kneading started the foundation to traditional shiatsu massage.
With this background in shiatsu massage therapy, we can now look at massage chair recliners that provide this type of techniques. Some of the premier massage chair brands like Panasonic, Omega and Sanyo have chairs that meet these parameters. Many of these chairs have sensors to detect your acupressure points. The software then adjusts the massage to target your individual pressure points. Some of the best massage chair recliners providing shiatsu massage therapy are presented here.
The Panasonic EP30004 Real Pro Ultra creates a virtual map of your back. It takes into consideration the curvature of your spine and shoulder height. This chair also comes with an ultra-fine kneading function called Junetsu. Junetsu uses small circular motions that reverberate to the bone to provide muscle invigoration and relaxation. These massage techniques are particularly effective for the whole back region. The Junetsu is a unique massage only incorporated in the Panasonic chair.
The Sanyo SA 5000 uses a physical shape sensor to measure the users body. This is a high tech gadget to keep the shiatsu massage hitting the right acu pressure points. The interesting feature is that you can move around in the chair and the shape sensor readjusts where your pressure points are located. This is perfect for those who squirm more during the massage. The chair will still zero in on your points and hit them with relieving accuracy. Sanyo has got your back!
In addition to effective and penetrating shiatsu style massage, the Montage Premier by Omega delivers a total massage environment. Omega builds in music therapy where you can put on the headphones and let ambient noise disappear. While you are relaxing, the Montage Premier has full body heat to help with blood circulation and relaxation. And if that is not enough, this Omega chair will stretch out your lower body. This chair comes with a lower body traction system. Stretching and elongating muscles is also part of the shiatsu tradition.
There you have it–shiatsu massage chairs. Shiatsu massage therapy is a very popular massage therapy and performed around the world in spas. Now you know some of its most basic elements. There are many subtle movements with shiatsu. Find the best massage chair brands and you will get a satisfying and relieving shiatsu massage. If you are just starting your search, check out shiatsu massage chairs from Panasonic, Omega and Sanyo.
If you are in the market for a Shiatsu Massage Chair, then see all the best Shiatsu Massage Chairs made by Panasonic, Sanyo, Omega, Health Tec, Human Touch and more. Peruse our massage chair articles, reviews and options.