What is SHIATSU?
In Japanese, Shi-atsu means ‘finger pressure’. It is rooted in the traditions of Eastern medicine and is at the core of many Indigenous healing traditions.
Shiatsu is the science of Ki (Qi in Chinese), Yin/Yang, meridian channel theory, and tsubo, or the acupoint system. Ki animates us - it is the first spark of life at conception and keeps us upright throughout life, moving our blood and nerves and strengthening our blood, which in turn is strengthened by the air we breathe, the food we eat and the moments of stillness we incorporate into our lives. It is subtle and powerful.
As a treatment, Shiatsu has influenced - and has been influenced by - other forms of bodywork and physical therapies. However, Shiatsu is unique because of its flexible applications. It uses both mobilisation and resistance, and can range from subtle and gentle, to deeper and more penetrating.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
Shiatsu uses physical pressure on the body’s connective tissue to transform congestion and enhance cell hydration. It promotes open, integrative movement of energy flow throughout the body. Stretching is used to facilitate this process, and holding is used to gather ki and support depleted areas.
Shiatsu can be gentle or vigorous, depending on your health and needs. Acupressure and stretching help move and eliminate built up toxins, and when needed, for example after periods of illness, a gentler, slower approach helps strengthen the body.
Shiatsu enhances nerve and blood flow along with breath awareness, improving the recipient’s sense of embodiment and an easing their state of mind.
WHAT TO EXPECT
At your first session, the practitioner will ask you what you want from the treatment, and find out about your health and lifestyle, as this is central to the diagnostic process in Shiatsu.
The treatment starts with a palpation of the Hara, the area below the diaphragm. This will indicate the Yin/Yang balance of your system and allow me to identify areas that require attention, such as those which are tense or depleted. The practitioner then works with those areas and any others you have concerns about.
Treatments take place on a futon (mat) on the floor and the client is fully clothed, although a massage table can be used if it is difficult for the recipient to lie on the floor.
SHIATSU CAN HELP WITH -
- the alleviation of pain and discomfort
- anxiety and depression
- recovery and rehabilitation from illness or injury
- general well-being
If you haven’t already tried this wonderful modality, I recommend you book in a treatment today!
