Meridian massage combines Chinese acupressure massage with the Korean technique Kyung-Rak and Japanese Shiatsu

Don't let his slender stature fool you. When it comes to teasing out your tensions via deep acupressure massage, Chongsu Lee has the magic touch. As I lay stretched out on his table, he slowly, but ever so persuasively, "walked" his fingertips and palms up and down my aching muscles. I told him I preferred a firm touch, and he delivered, sometimes by using his body as a counterweight to push against me.

It can't hurt that he has an extensive background in martial arts, which undoubtedly boosts his strength.

So what is Meridian massage? It originated in South Korea, as did Lee, and combines Chinese acupressure massage with the Korean technique Kyung-Rak and Japanese Shiatsu.

After a health assessment covering any pre-existing conditions – from proper illnesses down to cuts and bruises the masseur needs to be aware of – I disrobed and took to the table.

Using organic oils, Lee started on my legs, which are a problem area for aches and pains, but ultimately worked around my entire body, including my tight, tense shoulders – a common complaint among office workers who hammer away on a computer all day.

As he targeted the pressure points to unlock the body's energy, he simultaneously pulled gently, so there's a constant push/pull dynamic at play, which I always find relaxing, and which makes me feel taller and less hunched up when I eventually get off the table.

This kind of deep tissue massage is ideal for relaxation, for eliminating the muscle spasm that builds up with stress and strain, and is beneficial for a range of ailments, from muscle tightness to aches and pains. In some people, it has helped to reduce the effects of anxiety and depression.

Lee originally trained as an industrial engineer, but after two years with Hyundai, he began studying natural health and currently offers a whole portfolio of treatments, from Bach flower remedy therapy, to physiotherapy, and tai chi training, as well. At the end of my session I felt terrific and ultra-mellow – and that lasted for a while (Lee says some people feel the effects of the massage for four or five days).

The next time I visit Lee, however, I'm going to schedule it carefully, so that I don't leave there and immediately head to the office. Sitting and working for several hours made me feel creaky again, but that passed once I began the walk home, when the mellow feeling of bonhomie from my massage returned.

Neal's Yard Remedies, 102 Hanover Street, Edinburgh, tel: [phone].

This article was first published in The Scotsman on Saturday, 21 August, 2010