Shiatsu is a Japanese massage technique that literally means "finger pressure": the word "shi" means "finger" while "atsu" means "pressure." It is a massage technique that has been existence for over 2,000 years, and is actually a derivative of the ancient Chinese massaging and healing method of acupressure. 
It is a natural way to help people relax and cope with issues such as stress, muscle pain, nausea, anxiety, and depression. There are two main Shiatsu schools: one based on western anatomical and physiological theory and the other based on Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). 

Shiatsu massage uses acupressure techniques which is applied with hands, thumbs, elbows and knees. The acupressure technique has its roots from the acupuncture therapy and Traditional Chinese Medicine.