Shiatsu literally means finger pressure in Japanese. It is a profoundly relaxing form of body work. It is a touch based therapy that has the potential to integrate all the body systems: from the physical (digestive, endocrine, nervous, cardio-vascular, respiratory, immune, muscular etc) to the non-physical (electro-magnetic, chakras, auric fields). Shiastsu incorporates both Traditional Chinese Medicine with more modern Japanese systems of application.

Shiatsu stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system encouraging the body and mind to re-align themselves by tapping into the body's innate wisdom and regenerative ability in response to precise and considered touch.

The practitioner applies pressure to the receiver’s body initially with the palms of the hand, applying varied pressure to give a relaxing and releasing sensation. As the treatment gets deeper they will focus more specifically on holding combinations of Acupuncture points which release areas of tension and stress. This is done usually with the thumbs and fingers. Throughout the treatment the therapist is listening for the body’s response to touch and adjusting the treatment to suit the individual. The treatment will usually include some stretching of the limbs and corresponding joints. The intensity of the stretches can vary and will accommodate both the condition being treated and the sensitivity of and openness of the receiver. An open dialogue is encouraged.

Shiatsu is primarily a preventative treatment as well as a potentially curative treatment. It's use and application in the relief of physical and emotional dis-ease can be as remarkable as its ability to encourage health and well-being through relaxation and deep release of tension. Shiatsu focuses on the correction and maintenance of muscles, bone structure, joints, tendons, organs, body systems, meridian lines, chakras and auric fields. Blockages in the flow of Chi / Ki / Prana / life-force through these systems can distort body’s energetic and physical experience. In the long run, left untreated the symptoms of these blockages can lead to pain and other symptoms of discomfort.

The theory behind Shiatsu is based on the premise that the body and mind will repair themselves if given the optimum conditions in which to do so. It has it’s origin in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and so is akin to Acupuncture in that is uses the same model of electro-magnetic pathways that run through out the body and are called meridians. Shiatsu can provide relief from the same conditions one might see an Acupuncturist for.

It is safe and nice to receive Shiatsu whilst pregnant, however please do inform the practitioner if you are pregnant, have a look at my pregnancy shiatsu page to find out more.

In Zen Shiatsu each treatment is as new and different as the evolving you, the system that is used is based on following your response to the treatment moment to moment.