What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a therapeutic form of acupressure, muscle meridian stretching and corrective exercises. It originated in Japan and is founded on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is a beautiful compliment to therapeutic Yoga and Ayurveda. As a Shiatsu therapist I use my palms, thumbs, elbows, knees and feet to apply pressure along the meridians, channels that move energy through the body. I aim to restore the balance of energy through  meridians in order to promote wellbeing and to strengthen the body’s own healing abilities.

Shiatsu therapy determines areas of excess energy and low energy and uses a dynamic form of body therapy to balance these. The pressure used my be gentle or firm, and the style of acupressure may be soothing or vigorous, depending on the condition being treated.

Wear comfortable clothing, such as gym wear or tracksuits, as you will be moved about, gently leaned on, stretched and rolled, whilst lying on a comfy mat on the floor. On a physical level this has the effect of stimulating circulation and lymph, and releasing muscle tension. It also works on the autonomic nervous system to create a sense of balance and relaxation.

I support your Shiatsu treatment with the addition of Yoga posture suggestions, Naturopathic dietary advice, Yogic breath work and meditation instruction.