About Shiatsu
Shiatsu, literally translated, means finger pressure. It is a
traditional hands on Japanese healing therapy which has its roots in ancient Oriental medicine. It is the
sister therapy to acupuncture - but without the needles.
The philosophy underlying Shiatsu is that vital
energy (known as Ki Japanese and Qi/Chi Chinese) flows throughout the body in a series of channels/pathways
called meridians. For many different reasons, Chi can stop flowing freely and this then produces a symptom.
A Shiatsu practitioner will consider your state of health, the symptoms you are experiencing and, depending
on your constitution and general energy levels, will use a variety of techniques to improve your energy flow.
These may include gentle holding, pressing with palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feet on the meridians
and, when appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches.
As the quality of Chi changes, the symptoms
associated with a lack of flow will gradually improve.
Shiatsu can be beneficial for a wide range of
conditions from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health.
Benefits of Shiatsu
Relaxes
Eases tension & stiffness
Improves breathing
Improves posture
Improves circulation
Enhances well being
Restores & balances energy
Helps strengthen the immune system
What to expect in a Session
Each session will last approximately
an hour. The first session maybe slightly longer as a detailed case history will need to be taken to provide a
complete picture of your health.
The session usually takes place on a table or at floor level on a futon,
although, it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down.
The client
stays fully clothed.
Shiatsu can be a deeply relaxing experience and regular Shiatsu sessions help to
strengthen the immune system and prevent the build up of stress in our daily lives.
Common conditions helped
Insomnia
Physical & Emotional Stress
Back Pain
Arthritic Pain
Anxiety
Headaches & migraines
Shock & Trauma
Whiplash injuries and neck stiffness
Joint pain and reduced mobility
Menstrual, premenstrual and menopausal disorders
Digestive problems
Respiratory conditions such as Asthma or bronchitis
Depression
Guidelines for receiving Shiatsu
Please wear (or bring with you) loose, warm, comfortable clothing.
Do not eat heavily in the two hours prior to treatment.
Do not drink alcohol before or after treatment.
Drink plenty of water after the treatment to help smooth the flow of changes through the system.