Shiatsu is a touch based therapy that was originally developed in Japan.
Often mistaken for a massage...
Shiatsu is a gentle and deeply healing natural treatment using the fingers, elbows and knees.
Shiatsu is given by a practitioner on a futon while the client is fully clothed.
It looks like a massage, and in some way feels like a massage but it has a part to it that is healing and deeply soothing when given by a trained practitioner.
Shiatsu improves the metabolism by stimulating capillary action in the blood vessels and promoting lymphatic drainage.
The skin is invigorated, cells are nourished, waste is removed and the balance of the body is achieved.
Whether the client just wants to have a relaxing time or has a specific condition that they would like to address - Shiatsu can provide a space for healing and a place of respite.
Each time a client comes for Shiatsu, they will have a different treatment because the practitioner tailors each treatment based on the condition presented by the client on that day.
Shiatsu is a preventative medicine and regular sessions help to prevent the build-up of stress in the body to ward off illness, and maintain good health.
By using the theories and tools of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the Shiatsu practitioner can give a diagnosis to the client about their current physical, emotional or mental condition.
Before a treatment begins, the practitioner may check the clients' pulse, check the tongue and check the hara to find out where the imbalances are so that an appropriate treatment personally tailored to that client may be given.
The clients' presenting condition as well as their medical history will be addressed and considered during the treatment.
As the treatment progresses - stretches and releases of joints, fascia, muscles and the spine will be performed.
The practitioner pays attention to appropriate energetic lines (TCM meridian) on the body, or points on the meridian throughout the treatment to address imbalances and promote healing.
Each session can take anything from an hour to one and a half hour.
Shiatsu can help in a wide range of conditions from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health.
Conditions that can be addressed by a Shiatsu treatment:
asthma and respiratory illnesses, depression, digestive disorders, constipation, irritable bowel, anxiety, pregnancy, menstrual issues, headaches migraines, sports injuries, back, neck and shoulder pain, RSI, insomnia, fatigue, muscle tension,heart palpitations and stress.
Because Shiatsu is a total body therapy and is based on the philosophy of restoring harmony in the body and the mind as well as emotions - the practitioner will usually give advice to the client regarding diet, yoga,meditation and healing exercises to further support the clients' well-being after the treatment.
