Shiatsu is a Japanese
system of physical therapy derived from Chinese theories about how the body
works. Shiatsu is a healing art that helps the body to relax and release tension
naturally.
This Japanese-style massage is a pressure-point technique based on a concept of physiology similar to that employed in acupuncture.
In Zen Shiatsu, the name of this specific type of Shiatsu, the practitioner applies pressure along the body's organ meridians (energy channels) with the thumb, palm, forearm, knee, and foot.
Special attention is paid to the acupuncture points, which the person giving the massage may sometimes feel as nodules under the skin and the person being massaged will usually feel as trigger points. The pressure on these points may cause something close to pain, but it feels like therapeutic pain that is helping to heal.
Stretching and joint rotation release is also an integral part of the treatment.
Shiatsu encourages the body's own healing process and enhances one's overall well being.
Shiatsu can be used over
general areas of the body to promote Ki (chi) or life force and Blood flow
through the meridian system. It's a non-invasive therapy that can be used on its
own or in conjunction with other treatment strategies. For example, Shiatsu is
often used prior to acupuncture treatment.
Shiatsu is recommended to help preserve health, and for acute and chronic conditions. It is effective at treating muscular-skeletal conditions such as muscle fatigue, neck pain, bursitis, tendonitis, and sciatica, joint and back pain. Shiatsu also treats many other conditions like insomnia, headaches, digestive problems, menstrual dysfunction, anxiety and depression. This is achieved by calming the body and stimulating the function of the Parasympathetic (the calming) Nervous System.
Shiatsu is recommended to help preserve health and to provide relief from acute and chronic conditions, including:
- Muscle fatigue
- Bursitis
- Joint pain
- Sciatica
- Headaches
- Insomnia
- Neck pain
- Tendonitis
- Back pain
- Menstrual dysfunction
- Digestive problems
- Anxiety and depression
During the first visit a thorough diagnostic evaluation of your medical history will be taken and treatment of the underlying causes of your condition will be addressed.
Shiatsu is a very safe and environmentally friendly therapy, because it requires no equipment or technology. It is usually performed on the floor on a futon but can be done on a table if necessary.
No oils or lotions are used in Shiatsu.
The client is requested to wear loose, comfortable clothing.