Hollywood Trend Alert!
What's Everybody Into?
Jin Shin Jyutsu

Talk about chillin'. The trendiest relaxation method in Hollywood is the Japanese healing technique known as Jin Shin Jyutsu. Veteran body coach Marc Vahanian - whose client list includes Ted Danson, Woody Harrelson and JAG's Catherine Bell - sums up the method's growing appeal: "You feel better, you look better and you gain confidence in your body. You really see results."

Jin Shin Jyutsu is a one-on-one table session that focuses primarily on a series of pressure points - 26 in total, from head to toe - similar to acupuncture points. Proper manipulation of these areas is said to increase the circulation of energy flow (or "chi") in specific trouble zones in the body.

Sound a bit like acupressure? Well, not exactly. For one thing, in a Jin Shin Jyutsu session, the subject remains fully clothed and, in most cases, is covered with a double layer of fabric. The practitioner then "listens" for energy pulses with his fingers. Once in tune with the subject's flow, he applies light pressure to the body, using two points simultaneously and following a specific pattern. "Some have described the experience as a 'phenomenal breakthrough,'" says Vahanian, who is based in Studio City, CA. "Their words - not mine." he adds, smiling.

Once the body's energy flow is in balance, the participant tends to surface slowly, feeling content, refreshed and energized. Of course, given the fast-paced, ever-changing lifestyle prevalent in Hollywood, it's easy to see why Vahanian and other practitioners are busier than ever. And their client list may continue to grow as mainstream doctors get hip to Jin Shin Jyutsu. Vahanian says he's already received numerous patient referrals from cardiologists - news that will surely do his heart some good. Interested? You can contact Vahanian at bodycoach.com.

- Tommy Ucciardi