What is lomi-atsu?
Developed in 2009 by certified massage therapist Noémie Gélinas, lomi-atsu is inspired by two ancestral massage techniques, shiatsu and lomi lomi.
The approach aims to revive the body’s vitality and to loosen the muscles. It is a meeting of East and West, as well as a balance between a relaxing massage and a therapeutic treatment.
On the one hand, lomi-atsu is characterised by long, fluid and dynamic movements applied with the forearms, elbows and palms of the hands. These movements, inspired by lomi lomi, lead to muscular relaxation and deep relaxation.
On the other hand, the specific use of the thumbs on the pressure points resulting from shiatsu makes it possible to release the tensions and blockages which could be there, supporting by the same fact the free circulation of the vital energy in the body.
*Lomi-atsu was taught from 2009 to 2019, but is no longer taught today. To find a massage therapist who practices lomi-atsu in your area, visit devwp.fqm.qc.ca (section “Find a Registered Massage Therapist”) or call 514 597-0505.
What are the benefits of lomi-atsu?
The holistic nature of lomi-atsu allows for both relaxing and therapeutic benefits, whether on a physical, energetic or emotional level. Here are some examples:
- Soothing, relaxation and relief
- Release of muscular tension and other areas of tension in the body
- Improvement of blood and energy circulation
- Relief from stress, anxiety, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, etc.
- Revitalising effect on the body
- Relief of certain stomach complaints (e.g. bloating, constipation, etc.)
- Improvement of intestinal transit
Contraindications
Lomi-atsu should be avoided in the following situations (list not exhaustive):
- Fever and active infection
- Recent surgery
- Open wound
- Recent scarring
- Apparent varicose vein
- Phlebitis
It should be noted that the massage therapist always collects information from the client before beginning the session. This information is used, among other things, to identify any contraindications to the massage. In doing so, the massage therapist can, if necessary, refer the client to the appropriate medical resource or adjust the treatment accordingly to ensure safety.
Course of the session
Lomi-atsu massage takes place on a massage table. The manoeuvres are applied directly to the skin and massage oil is used to facilitate the fluidity of the movements.
Through a health questionnaire, the massage therapist will first inquire about the client’s state of health, including the presence of areas of tension, the state of the digestive system, recent injuries, etc.
Then, once the client is comfortable on the massage table, the massage therapist will work on areas of tension in the body and energy blockages through lomi-atsu manoeuvres. These combine long, flowing lomi lomi movements with the forearms and elbows, with shiatsu pressure applied with the thumbs to acupressure points.
Throughout the entire lomi-atsu massage protocol, a portion is dedicated to the abdominal area. To do this, the massage therapist will apply gentle and progressive pressure on the reflex zones of the organs of the abdomen using the palms of the hands and fingers.
A lomi-atsu massage usually lasts 70 minutes. It is also possible to offer it in a 90 minute session, which allows you to get all the benefits associated with the belly massage portion.