Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork that includes principles of Chinese Medicine. Shiatsu involves the stimulation of acupressure points that improve the flow of Qi through the body. Energetic meridians start at the fingers and toes and travel deeper to the organs; then circulate out. Each organ holds and distributes the blood and Qi for the whole system in an important way. For example, the Spleen makes the blood and when it isn’t functioning well we may experience a lack of energy; whereas the Liver stores and circulates the blood and when not functioning well we may experience “qi stagnation,” and poor circulation. For both of these, Qi energy is involved. Thus, working with the Acu-points and meridians corrects imbalances in energy flow throughout the body. This can be likened to removing a damn from a river – and may improve health in every way. “When Qi flows, there is no pain” the adage states, and truly – you will feel better when your Qi energy is flowing and balanced. ‘
Shiatsu can be given gently or with deeper pressure and is often a combination of both. Your practitioner may choose to incorporate other styles of massage to enhance the session. The receiver wears “loose, comfortable clothing” and will lay on a massage table or comfortable mat. The practitioner will do a short intake followed by a brief assessment. This may include gentle palpation, postural assessment and pulse taking.
Shiatsu can assist in treating many conditions; pain, injuries, anxiety, depression, digestive issues, fatigue, women and men’s health, insomnia, pre and post-partum care, headaches, TMJ, sciatica, low-back pain and much more!