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Human shiatsu

WHAT IS SHIATSU

Shi-atsu, Japanese for 'finger-pressure', can briefly be described as the Japanese style of acupressure. In reality it is much more than that! It can help with a wide range of ailments; from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health.

Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular Shiatsu sessions help prevent an accumulation of stress in our daily lives.

Eastern tradition describes the world in terms of energy. All things are considered manifestations of a vital universal force under the name 'Ki' by the Japanese, 'Chi' or 'Qi' in China. Ki is the primary matter and motive of life force. It is usually described as 'energy', but Ki is also a synonym for breath in Japanese and Chinese languages. In Eastern medicine, the harmony of the Ki in the human body is considered essential for health.

Shiatsu is a body therapy that supports and strengthens the self-healing aspect of the body and its balance. It has an effect on the whole person, not only on the physical body, but also on the psychological, emotional and spiritual aspects of being.

You can download here a list of international scientific studies on the effects of shiatsu on the receiver.

Shiatsu originated in Japan from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), with influences from more recent Western therapies. Although Shiatsu means 'finger pressure' in Japanese, the practitioner also uses touch, light pressure and gentle manipulations to adjust the physical structure of the body and to balance the energy flow. It is a deeply relaxing experience and regular treatments can relieve stress and illness and maintain health and well-being.

  • Dissolves tension - against stress
  • For wellbeing
  • Helps with the quality of sleep
  • Helps to relax

A shiatsu treatment

Your Shiatsu practitioner will look at your state of health, the symptoms you are experiencing and, depending on your constitution and general energy levels, will use a series of techniques to improve the flow of your energy. These techniques can range from gentle hold, pressure with the palms of the hands, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feet on the meridians and, when applicable, more dynamic rotations and stretches. As the quality of the Ki changes, the symptoms associated with a lack of flow will gradually improve. Shiatsu is a therapy that affects the individual as a whole, not only the physical body but also on an emotional and/or mental level.

Do I have to be sick to receive Shiatsu?

No

People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and well-being. Regular treatments can help to keep the body in harmony and prevent illness.

Can I receive Shiatsu while taking medication?

Yes, you can.
Your practitioner will ask if you are taking medication and will pay attention to the details of any medical illness you are suffering from. 

I am pregnant, can I still receive Shiatsu?

Yes
Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy. Many of our practitioners specialize in shiatsu for pregnancy.

Can Shiatsu help with persistent or incurable ailments?

Yes
Shiatsu can provide support and can often help reduce or relieve symptoms, even if the problem cannot be solved. A better sense of well-being can improve the recipient's ability to cope with the symptoms. Shiatsu also supports the natural immune system.

SEARCHING FOR TRAINING CENTERS OR PRACTITIONERS FOR SHIATSU

See the list of training centers
See the list of practitioners

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