Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork with its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine, The Five Elements, Acupuncture, Zen Meditation and Nutrition. Oriental medicine acknowledges a network of channels in the body called meridians through which energy (Ki) flows. For many reasons this energy flow can be disrupted, causing physical symptoms of illness, as well as emotional, psychological or spiritual disharmony.

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The aim in shiatsu is to encourage this energy to flow freely allowing the body's own natural healing processes to take place. Instead of using needles the shiatsu practitioner uses a range of techniques including the use of hands, elbows and knees. Different qualities of pressure and stretching will be applied along specific meridian lines and acupressure points depending on whether an area is depleted or obstructed. This rebalancing of energy allows the client to experience him or herself more deeply, releasing pain and tension and bringing awareness to the underlying causes of the discomfort. Shiatsu looks at the person as a whole and empowers the client to play an active role in the recovery process.

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The Benefits

 

Greater physical and mental awareness

emotional and psychological stability

Improved elimination of toxins

Improved posture and muscle flexibility

Improved breathing and circulation

 

 

What can Shiatsu Help?

 

Shiatsu can alleviate a wide range of conditions as well as having a major affect on your overall health and well being. 

 

Some common conditions include;

 

Back pain

Aching joints

Headaches and migraines

Bladder and urinary infections

Sleeplessness

Depression

Fatigue

Respiratory and Digestive disorders

Menstrual problems and menopausal symptoms

Addiction

Infertility, Pregnancy, Birth and Postpartum (please see the page on Pregnancy)

 

 

What happens during a treatment?

 

The shiatsu will begin with a short consultation followed by 45 minutes of bodywork and feedback. The treatment takes place on a comfortable futon with the client fully clothed. It is best to wear loose fitting cotton clothing for ease of movement. It is recommended not to eat heavily prior to a treatment. Lifestyle, exercise and dietary recommendations may be given where appropriate. 

 

How many sessions?

 

This varies from person to person and will be discussed after the initial consultation. For optimum affect, a series of at least 6 sessions is usually recommended in order to assimilate and integrate the changes taking place. Once the condition improves, the client can then space out their sessions. 

 

 

“Creating the environment for the body to express its inherent health”