Shiatsu massage or acupressure is the Japanese version of Chinese acupuncture therapy. It is based on the Chinese theory of the circulation of subtle energy, or Chi, through meridians running through the body which govern the internal organs. Shiatsu involves using finger, thumb and knuckle pressure on specific acupuncture meridians. The foundation of this massage is deep pressure exerted upon these specific localized points, but it also includes a wide variety of stretches, rubbing, hacking and other common massage techniques. Unlike Swedish Massage, Shiatsu requires the recipient's participation with the therapist in coordinating the breath with the manipulations.