Overview

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing therapy. It can help in a wide range of conditions - from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular Shiatsu sessions help to prevent the build up of stress in our daily lives.

The philosophy underlying Shiatsu is that vital energy (known as Ki in Japanese) flows throughout the body in a series of channels called meridians. For many different reasons Ki can stop flowing freely and this then produces a symptom.

History

For thousands of years, touch, bodywork and herbs have been used by groups from native cultures all around the world to heal, relax and relieve pain and disease. In good health, Life energy, or Ki, Prana or Chi, is balanced and flows freely through energy channels in our bodies.

When this vital force becomes unbalanced, our vitality drops, health problems and discomfort may develop and sickness may occur. In times past, and before the existence of doctors, hospitals and drugs, people worked on each other naturally on a regular basis. When a child or a parent would start feeling discomfort, fatigue or pain, touch in the form of massage or finger pressure was used as a tool of relief and help. Every country and culture had their own method and way of natural healing.

Benefits

Shiatsu creates a deep feeling of well-being, vitality and relaxation. It can be effective in preventing disease. It can eliminate muscular stiffness, reduce tension, relieve fatigue and strengthen internal organs and the immune system. It treats the whole body - legs, arms, abdomen, chest, back, neck, shoulders and face. Shiatsu awakens the receiver's own healing power.

Common conditions helped by Shiatsu include:

• back pain
• headaches, migraines
• whiplash injuries and neck stiffness
• joint pain and reduced mobility
• menstrual problems
• digestive problems
• asthmatic symptoms
• sports injuries
• depression

Following a treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality and you may feel invigorated yet relaxed.

Procedure

Your 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 Ki changes, the symptoms associated with a lack of flow will gradually improve. Shiatsu is a therapy that works on the individual as a complete being - not just the physical body but also on an emotional and/or mental level.

Each session lasts approximately one hour. The first session may be slightly longer since your practitioner will take a detailed case history to develop a complete picture of your health according to the principles of oriental medicine.
The session usually takes place on a padded mat or futon at floor level, although it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down. The client stays fully clothed.

Source of information: The Shiatsu Society and The Wellness Studio