The Japanese form of bodywork known as Shiatsu is a method of using

pressure to relieve stress and discomfort. It is especially applicable to

working on yourself and can be practiced anywhere. Try these moves. If

you like only a few, or even just one, try practicing those techniques two

or three times a day. Use your thumbs, fingers, or knuckles as directed.

Note: If any of these moves cause pain, discontinue them.

1. Holding one foot, press your thumbs into the center of the ball of

your foot. Then rub your knuckles vigorously across the sole. Repeat

on the other side.

2. Using the knuckles of each hand, reach around your back and slide

up and down each side of the spine, from as high as you can reach

down to the low back.

3. Intertwine your fingers on the back of your neck and bring your

4. Rub your hands vigorously and then rub the palms briskly on your

cheeks, up and down. Then briskly rub the sides of your nose.

5. Beginning at the center of the area above the upper lip, use the pad of

your thumbs or fingers to press and release every one-half inch until

your reach the corner of the lips. Repeat on the area below the lips.

6. For anxiety, use your fingertips or knuckles to drum lightly across

the entire skull.

7. For mental clarity, stick your index fingers in your ears. Twist them

back and forth, applying a slight pressure.

8. For vitality, squeeze one arm with your fingers. Move up and down

the entire arm and repeat on the other side.