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What is Shiatsu?
Deeply relaxing therapeutic bodywork, originating in Japan. It aims to support and strengthen the natural ability of our body to heal and balance itself, enabling an individual to move towards greater health and well-being.
Based on the same 'Traditional Chinese Medicine' principles as acupuncture, Shiatsu is often known as ‘acupuncture without needles’. Literally it means 'finger pressure' ('shi' meaning 'finger' and 'atsu' meaning 'pressure').
In practice, each treatment may include a range of techniques and approaches depending on the individual. The main features are:
relaxed perpendicular pressure along energy channels and acupuncture points using fingers, thumbs, elbows or knees.
stretching to stimulate circulation and encourage the release of tensions and stimulate energy
joint mobilisation where appropriate
It is based on the idea that when we are in balance, physically and emotionally, our body's basic life force or energy (ki/chi) flows freely through channels (meridians) in the body, like water in a river. this flow can become blocked, manifesting in physical and emotional symptoms.
Traditionally, Shiatsu is given with the receiver laying comfortably on a futon. Alternatively, Shiatsu may be given with the receiver sitting on a specially adapted massage chair (Seated Shiatsu).
Uniquely, the receiver wears loose, light clothing throughout the treatment.
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