Shiatsu is an ancient form of Japanese Acupressure that began over two thousand years ago. In fact, Shiatsu means “finger pressure” in Japanese. Like acupuncture, Shiatsu is based on the holistic system of Traditional Chinese Medicine, in which illness is thought to be the result of some imbalance in the natural flow of energy, or Chi, through the body. By focusing on Chi instead of muscles and connective tissue, Shiatsu gets to the root of pain or discomfort. Therefore, Shiatsu affects aspects of the physical body as well as the mind and spirit.
Shiatsu is typically practiced on a floor mat with clients fully clothed. Palming and finger pressure, as well as passive stretches are applied along the body’s energetic meridians (passages through which Chi flows) to achieve balance. When meridians are balanced, the body will be healthy and function properly. However, life’s stresses constantly test our limits and throw off our energy balance. These imbalances often manifest themselves as symptoms such as pain, discomfort, and disease.
The role of the Shiatsu practitioner is to take into account all symptoms and to assess the your energetic state to find the root cause of imbalance. The Shiatsu Practitioner will work with you to improve the body’s energy balance. When the energetic system is flowing properly, the body is able to heal and revive itself.
Can you benefit from Shiatsu?
Are you interested in receiving a massage? Are you thinking about trying acupuncture, but a little afraid? Are you tired of depending on pills? Are you just stuck? Are you sick of not getting the results you want from other means of treatment? All of the above are reasons to try Shiatsu massage.
Anyone can benefit from Shiatsu, regardless of age, lifestyle, or physical fitness level. Because the human body is constantly changing, chi balance is always something to strive for. Shiatsu can be beneficial to everyone!
What to expect.
No oils or lotions are used in a Shiatsu treatment. Unlike traditional massage, you will be fully clothed, so be sure to bring or wear comfortable clothes to your session.
When you come to your first Shiatsu appointment, expect to answer some questions about yourself. Your practitioner will use your responses to assess your current energy state, which will guide him or her in your treatment. Everything written and discussed during a session is kept confidential.
After the initial appointment, you will not have to fill out paperwork. However, before each treatment, you and your practitioner will discuss what your body may need that day. After your initial discussion, you will be asked to lie down on a floor mat. Your practitioner will then assess your pulse, tongue, hara, and complexion, as well as any complaints of pain, discomfort or disharmonies, to determine the state of your Chi.
Once your practitioner has a “game plan,” it will be your job to relax, enjoy and take part in the wonderful experience of Shiatsu.
Once the session is complete, your practitioner will assess the body’s energy state once again to see how it has changed. Your practitioner may ask you questions about your experience. It is important to be honest about your experiences, both good and bad. If you are experiencing pain or if there is something you are not comfortable with, please communicate it to your practitioner as soon as possible. He or she will then perhaps recommend some life-style or dietary adjustments, and suggest stretches that will help you maintain your body’s balance in everyday life.
