A day for "Shiatsu", Japanese acupressure

Today, and April 8th annually, is Acupressure Day 指圧の日 (Shiatsu no Hi) in Japan. It celebrates Japan's unique tradition of healing through touch. The anniversary was established by the nonprofit Japan Acupressure Association. 

Japanese Acupressure, known as "Shiatsu", is a hands-on therapeutic method that applies pressure to specific points, known as "tsubo", across the body. By stimulating these points, practitioners can encourage the body's natural healing ability, helping restore balance and ease discomfort.

The reason for the date, April 8th, is two-fold. One, is that April 8th is the birthday of Buddha, whose compassion is seen as resonating the nurturing spirit behind "shiatsu". Two, April 8th, 4/8, can be read as "shi(4) atsu(8)".