Shiatsu Acupressure Massage

Shiatsu may be new to you, so here we will give you a bit of information about how it may support you with your current physical and emotional health issues, and how it can pro-actively support you with your general health and well-being. We’ll tell you what Shiatsu is and what you can expect out of a treatment.

HOW CAN SHIATSU HELP ME?

Shiatsu acupressure massage is a physical touch therapy which supports and strengthens the body’s natural ability to heal itself. Shiatsu treatments are beneficial for a wide variety of conditions, whether the root cause is physical, mental or emotional.

Your experiences and your lifestyle have shaped you. These experiences can be held within the body and may manifest in symptoms such as physical pain and tension, headaches, lack of energy, sleep disturbances, emotional issues such as anxiety and depression. Certain areas of the body may be in pain, stagnant, tired or depleted.

Shiatsu can help you cope with everyday stresses, promotes general well-being and can leave you feeling restored, re-energised and deeply nourished. Regular treatments can be used as a preventive health care method.

Clients may come for Shiatsu for relief from aches and pains, a particular symptom or when living with a chronic health condition. Shiatsu treatments can support women through pregnancy and post-pregnancy, and the changes occurring in the body and mind. And it can assist and support people through times of crisis, difficult life phases and processes of change.

Finding the right therapist for you is important. So please feel free to call or email us if you have any questions or concerns and we can discuss what you need, your particular symptoms and any diagnosis that you may have.

WHAT IS SHIATSU?

Shiatsu is a combination of traditional Japanese touch therapy integrated with an understanding of anatomy, physiology and psychology. Shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese and it springs from the same ancient principles as acupuncture. It is experienced fully clothed as a whole body massage and is often described as ‘acupuncture without the needles’

The practitioner uses a combination of acupressure points, gentle stretching and holding, flowing movements and joint rotations. Areas of tension, pain or weakness are given attention and the body brought back into balance by improving flexibility and circulation.

Shiatsu can also help explore what may be the underlying cause of these symptoms from both an Eastern (energetic) and Western (anatomical, physiological, and psychological) perspective.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Your practitioner will consult with you about your general health, lifestyle and any particular symptoms you are experiencing.

Shiatsu is normally carried out at floor level on a cotton futon mattress or can be on a raised massage table. The session will last one hour (allow a little longer for your first session), and it may include advice on diet, exercises and relaxation techniques for you to support your own self-care in between sessions. 

You will feel the benefits from a single treatment, but to maintain good health or to treat certain conditions, several treatments may be recommended.

Avoid large or heavy meals prior to treatment and maybe have a snack an hour before.

To make the most out of your treatment, where possible rest or take it easy afterwards.

WHAT TO WEAR

You will be fully clothed throughout the session. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that will keep you warm through the session. Avoid jeans and other tight clothing.

You can find more information at The Shiatsu Society, the professional organisation for Shiatsu Practitioners in the UK by clicking here.