Definition

A type of massage therapy from Japan that uses pressure applied with the thumbs and palms to specific points on the body, similar to acupuncture.

Example

After a long week, I decided to treat myself to a shiatsu massage to relieve my stress.

Conversation

Have you ever tried shiatsu massage before?

I haven't, but I've heard it's really relaxing!

Yeah, it's amazing how it targets pressure points in your body.

I should definitely give shiatsu a go sometime soon.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Shiatsu** → The word 'shiatsu' comes from Japanese, where 'shi' (指) means 'finger' and 'atsu' (圧) means 'pressure'. Therefore, 'shiatsu' refers to the technique of applying finger pressure to the body for therapeutic purposes.

Memory Tip

Imagine using your 'fingers' ('shi') to apply 'pressure' ('atsu') on specific points of the body — that's the essence of shiatsu.

Visually Confused Words