Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on therapy originating in Japan. It refers to use fingers, palms, thumbs, elbows, feet and knees to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health.
The Oriental tradition states that the status of our body should be maintained Yin and Yang balance. This balance is dependent on a vital universal force, called ‘Qi’ or ‘energy’. It is believed that this life energy ‘Qi’ must be flowing smooth and clear around our body. If the energy flow becomes blocked, it will cause illness. The Shiatsu therapy aims to unblock this trapped energy by applying pressure to special points on the body, thereby helping the body to heal itself.
How does it work?
Shiatsu incorporates a range of techniques such as tapping, squeezing, heating and rubbing to adjust the body’s physical structure and to stimulate the energy flows. Shiatsu aims at treating the patient on a holistic level, physical, emotional, mental and spiritual.
Shiatsu is a gentle and safe therapy for physical and mental problems. Treatment is carried out fully clothed and you will be asked to lie down on a futon mat on the ground or on a treatment couch. Your practitioner begins by asking about your past medical history and current ailments. In a Shiatsu session, the practitioner begins by examining your pulses and tongue and touching your abdomen to ensure which areas need special attention and what techniques to use. After the treatment, you will feel calm and relaxed but sometimes you will feel sleepy, tiredness or muscle soreness. This is normal but it doesn’t last long. It is recommended that you drink plenty of water after the treatment to help accelerate the healing process.
It is important to check that your practitioner is fully trained and is accredited with the relevant professional body and registered with a professional council, society, or association.