Looking to try some alternative healing, but squeamish about acupuncture needles? The ancient Japanese massage technique known as shiatsu is a perfect substitute, since it’s based on the same philosophy and medical theory and you can do it to yourself (sans sharp objects). Shiatsu utilizes the idea of pressure-points that stimulate energy channels in order to promote mental and physical wellbeing. Plus, the positions are so simple they can be performed almost anywhere. Check out these six soothing techniques and sink into a few minutes of pure bliss, free of charge.
1. GET YOUR GIRLS IN THE GAME WITH THIS ENERGY FLOW POSE (TRUST US!). a. Apply even pressure against your chest with your fingertips.
b. Move slowly up and down to transfer energy from the chest to the feet and increase your self-love tenfold.
2. CHILLAX WITH THIS SUPER EASY BEGINNER’S POSE.
a. Hold your tired, achy foot with two hands, thumbs pressed against the sole.
b. Rub vigorously; bask in the feel good vibes.
3. IF YOUR MEMORY GAME ISN’T ON POINT, TRY THIS POSITION TO FREE UP EMOTIONS AND INCREASE BLOOD CIRCULATION.
a. Hold your thigh between your hands.
b. Push your thumbs down to apply pressure.
c. Move your hands up and down.
d. Remember where you left your keys the night before.
4. UP YOUR STRENGTH AND GENERAL GIRL POWER WITH THIS KILLER MOVE.
a. Place your hands on the sides of your back with your thumbs close to the spine.
b. Apply gentle pressure and move up and down.
5. ANXIETY SNEAKING UP TO RUIN YOUR DAY? BANISH IT WITH THIS CALMING MOVE.
a. Drum your knuckles across the top of your head in light rhythmic movements, preferably while listening to the T. Swift ballad of your choice.
6. GET THOSE CREATIVE JUICES FLOWING WITH THIS SIMPLE, SUBTLE POSITION.
a. Grasp your thumb between the index and middle finger of the opposite hand.
b. Use the two fingers to pull your thumb away from your hand, appreciate fart joke potential.
c. Apply pressure by squeezing your two fingers.
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Article By Hannah Baxter
Illustrations By Anja Javelona
This article originally appeared in the Aug/Sept 2015 print edition of BUST Magazine. Subscribe today!
