APA Dictionary of Psychology

n. a form of complementary and alternative medicine that is a blend of acupressure and massage therapy, originating in Japan and influenced by Chinese and more recently by Western principles. It is performed to support natural self-healing, promote physical and mental well-being, and relieve discomfort and tension. The practitioner massages and applies pressure to the receiver’s body, using fingers, palms, elbows, knees, and feet, and stretches and rotates the receiver’s limbs, joints, and meridians (the body’s vital energy pathways). It is intended to be a holistic treatment rather than a treatment for specific complaints. [Japanese, literally: “finger pressure”]