What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a new name for the oldest form of medicine - healing with hands.

Where Qi flows free, health is present.

Like Acupuncture, Shiatsu works on rebalancing the flow of Qi (also called Chi, Ki or life force energy) that flows through the body in specific channels or meridians. Shiatsu practitioners use gentle finger pressure, palming and manipulative techniques to adjust the body's physical structure and balance energy flow.

When we feel well and in good health, our Qi flows smoothly, but when the body is weakened by lifestyle pressures, illnesses, emotional stress or injury, our Qi no longer flows smoothly. This often leads to physical discomfort ranging from mild to severe pain, as well as emotional or mental imbalance.

Shiatsu aims to treat the root cause of any health problem by balancing the flow of energy using Traditional Chinese Medicine approaches and acupressure massage.

I will help you relax deeply while treating your body and mind holistically with care and compassion, always considering your personal circumstances and wishes. I can offer support and a safe space during times when there may be emotional issues affecting your wellbeing.

Please get in touch to book a session or book a FREE 15 minute consultation to discuss your current health concerns and where you would like to improve your health and wellbeing.

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Shiatsu:

Enhances your natural energy and brings about restoration when you are depleted
Aids relaxation and brings about improved wellbeing
Compliments ongoing medical treatments and can be used during pregnancy (please note Shiatsu should never be used as a substitution for medical treatment)
Brings about a greater sense of equilibrium and potential to thrive in all areas of your life
Is unique and a personal treatment for you
Uses a range of contact and quality of touch, ranging from very light to deep tissue and from slow and still to a more physically dynamic

The Session

Sessions take place in a warm, safe space where you remain fully clothed, typically lying on a futon on the floor. Cushions can be used which offer support if needed and Shiatsu can be received in a seated position if this is best for you: your comfort is paramount. No oils are used.

Sessions are tailored to your individual needs and your Shiatsu diagnosis will be formed using a range of Shiatsu methods and by also taking into account the medical history you offer. Each session includes chance to review progress and a range of techniques such as stretching, holding, pressing accupressure points or joint manipulation which are all designed to support your Qi to flow with more ease around your body.

I will work with you to support, nourish and engage intuitively, addressing what is causing your ill health as well as treating underlying causes and presenting symptoms. My work with you will complement any psychotherapy or western medical treatment you may be having.

Aftercare

Shiatsu is a holistic treatment, and it is a good idea to rest or take it easy after a treatment. Healing reactions caused by the release of toxins or emotions may be experienced as the body lets go. Drinking plenty of water afterwards is encouraged to flush out any toxins released. There will be opportunity to discuss possible changes to lifestyle, exercise and diet as well as the chance to learn relaxation and other self-help techniques that you can practise at home.

How many sessions will I need?

It is important to remember that your health situation depends on many factors: how long you have had a problem, your age, the reactivity and ability of the body to react, your trust in me your therapist and the willingness to improve your lifestyle (posture, breathing, diet, exercise, mental attitude).

As each Shiatsu session is an individual treatment designed to help your body to heal and restore balance at its own pace, you will certainly feel better after a single session. However, if the condition is long-term then symptoms may return once the effects of your treatment wear off, or if the stresses and strains of your day to day life start to overwhelm again. I recommend that new clients commit to at least 4-6 sessions in order to realise more long-term benefits and you may need a longer course of treatment to really get to the root of a longstanding concern.

Many clients move to having regular treatments after a series of more intense sessions. It's like having a monthly MOT for your body to keep your body tuned with your lifestyle and personal circumstances and can be instrumental in maintaining balance.

Shiatsu can support you if you are experiencing:

Stress and anxiety
Muscular and skeletal problems
Chronic pain
Headaches and migraine
Sleep issues
Digestive problems
Respiratory problems
Depression and low mood
Pre-surgery preparation and post-surgery recovery
Ongoing cancer treatment

You can read more about how the Shiatsu Society supports research here.

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