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meridian chart
old meridian chart

about Shiatsu

According to Oriental medicine, vital energy, or Ki, flows throughout the body in channels called meridians. Imbalances in Ki are considered to cause ill-health. The purpose of Shiatsu is to re-establish healthy, unobstructed energy flow throughout the body, which the therapist does by stimulating points in meridians, and thus restore one's wellbeing.

From the Western point of view, Shiatsu works directly to calm the autonomic nervous system, which has the effect of calming nervous distress and increasing resistance to stress. By helping with blood and lymph circulation in the body, Shiatsu helps to maintain and improve muscle tone and healthy internal organ functions. It is believed that Shiatsu can also strengthen the immune system through its stress relieving properties.

Regular and consistent Shiatsu treatments can become an important aspect of preventative health care as well as treatment for existing symptoms.

Shiatsu may help in a wide range of conditions - from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health.

 

Shiatsu may help if you suffer with any of these conditions:


some frequently asked questions

 

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of massage. The word 'Shiatsu' translates literally as 'finger pressure', although in reality, the Shiatsu practitioner may use thumb, finger, elbow or even knee pressure within the massage.

Shiatsu works with the body's energy system allowing the body to find its own balance and encouraging the receiver to achieve optimum health.

What are the potential benefits of Shiatsu?

Most people find that a Shiatsu session encourages relaxation of the mind and body. It can help ease tension and stiffness, improve breathing and circulation, restore energy, and enhance well-being. In addition, there is a wide range of different conditions and ailments that may be helped by Shiatsu including back, neck and shoulder pain, circulatory problems, asthma, headaches and migraine, pre-menstrual symptoms, menstrual pain, chronic fatigue, and stress related conditions.


What should I wear?

‘You remain fully clothed during a Shiatsu session, so it is important that you wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes e.g. a long-sleeved T-shirt or sweatshirt and a pair of tracksuit bottoms or leggings, together with a pair of socks. It is best if you remove jewellery and avoid wearing perfumes or heavy make-up.


Can I eat and drink normally before I receive Shiatsu?

It is best to leave 2 or 3 hours after a heavy meal before having Shiatsu, although it is ok to have something light to eat. We would suggest that you avoid alcohol and excessive caffeine on the day of the treatment.


How long does a session normally last?

The massage itself will usually last between 45 and 50 minutes, although a 'taster' session may be 20 to 30 minutes in length. In addition, there will be a short time at the beginning of the session to up-date the practitioner on how you are feeling, and at the end to feed back. At the first session, your practitioner will also ask you a range of questions about your health.


Are there any circumstances where Shiatsu should be avoided?

At the first session, you will be asked a range of questions to identify any specific health issues. The practitioner will check whether any elements of Shiatsu treatment may be contra-indicated e.g. if you are pregnant or if you have high blood pressure, as there may be certain treatment points which should be avoided. If you are uncertain, please feel free to seek advice from your GP or The Shiatsu Place before booking an appointment.


What happens at a Shiatsu session?

The massage is usually given with the receiver lying on the floor on a futon (a Japanese mattress), although some of our practitioners will treat you on a massage table. During the session, you may be asked to lie on your front, on your back or on your side. In order that you can relax, it is important that you let the practitioner know if you cannot lie in a particular position for any reason, or if you need additional support in order to be comfortable e.g. to have a cushion under your knees. In some circumstances, Shiatsu can be given in a sitting position.


What should I do after receiving Shiatsu?

Some people feel very relaxed and benefit from taking things easy after a Shiatsu session. Others feel quite energised, although it is best to avoid rushing around after a treatment! It is advisable to drink plenty water after Shiatsu.


How many treatments will I need?

The number and frequency of treatments required will depend on the nature of your condition. Long-term (chronic) conditions are likely to require treatment over a longer time than conditions which are more acute.