Chinese massage therapy practiced at Holistic Happy Feet, in Naples, is a holistic approach to health care. As an aspect of Traditional Chinese Medicine for 2,000 years, Chinese massage therapy, which incorporates shiatsu, helps the body repair itself from physical ailments, revitalizes the body and mind, and induces a state of relaxation. 

Individuals that suffer from chronic pain related to sports injuries benefit from deep tissue shiatsu, an ancient form of massage based on Chinese acupuncture theory that includes the use of breathing and stretching. Although shiatsu can be done with clothes on or on bare skin, it’s better to perform shiatsu on bare skin using light holding to deep physical pressure applied with the palm of the hand or thumb. By stimulating acupuncture points, therapists aim to promote the flow of vital energy, also known as qi.

While traditionally trained Chinese massage therapists are highly skilled in using their hands to feel for tightness and restrictions in the body, individuals are asked prior to treatment to describe the location of the physical problems and any limitations. 

Muscles need sufficient time to recuperate. Therefore, from a therapeutic perspective, sports enthusiasts are instructed that Chinese massage therapy will not work if the individual returns to the sport while feeling 40 or 50 percent improved after the first treatment. This is because the repetitive muscle movements of body are the cause of the problem, and why a series of 60- to 90-minute treatments are recommended every day or every other day, as well as taking a break from the activity.

Holistic Happy Feet Massage is located at 4661 Tamiami Tr. N., in Naples. For more information, call 239-465-0708 or visit HappyFeetMassageNaples.com. See ad, page 21.