What is shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork, also further developed in China. It is both a form of physical manipulation and a means towards the growth of body, mind and spirit, combining a finely tuned intuition, understanding of oriental diagnosis, posture and breathing. The unique quality of Shiatsu is that it emphasizes efficient bodily movement and perception from one's true physical and spiritual centre.

Shiatsu technique involves stretching, leverage and leaning your weight into various parts of the recipient's body to encourage greater harmony of energy, circulation, flexibility and postural integrity. Many of the techniques are applied to the same system of energy channels or 'meridians' as used in acupuncture, although in Shiatsu each channel is felt to cover a greater area of the body. 

How does shiatsu work?
Like acupuncture, shiatsu is based on the holistic system of traditional Chinese medicine, where illness is thought to result from imbalances in the natural flow of energy, or qi (pronounced "chee") through the body.
Shiatsu therapists use finger and palm pressure to energetic pathways, called meridians to improve the flow of qi. A scientific explanation is that shiatsu calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system, which improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress.

What does shiatsu feel like?
The shiatsu therapist applies pressure using his or her fingers, thumbs, and/or palms in a continuous rhythmic sequence.

The pressure feels more localized, because unlike other types of massage, the finger pads are used to apply pressure for most of the treatment instead of the entire palm.

Certain pressure points may feel tender, which some people describe it as "good pain."

If you feel any discomfort or pain during the treatment, tell your therapist and he or she will adjust the pressure so that it is comfortable to you.

 What should I expect during my visit?
The treatment is done on a low massage table or on the floor.
Unlike other forms of massage, with shiatsu no massage oil is applied, so you remain fully clothed during the treatment. You may be asked to bring comfortable clothing to wear.

What conditions is shiatsu used for?

• Relaxation, Back pain, Headache
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Anxiety, Insomnia, Neck and shoulder pain
• Tiredness
• Recovery from injuries, Arthritis pain
• Stress
• Poor digestion, Constipation
• Depression