Shiatsu Treatments

Shiatsu is an ancient form of oriental medicine combined with a modern understanding of physiology. It dates back 5000 years to the beginning of acupuncture and is practised in various forms today around the world. It is a body treatment that differs from massage in that the practitioner, having taken a history and felt the abdominal diagnostic areas makes a specific diagnosis and treats the person accordingly. This normally takes an hour.

The work is normally done on a ‘futon’ mat wearing comfortable clothes but can be sitting if this is more comfortable. It includes some gentle stretching and leaning into areas of need, paying attention to appropriate energy channels and points used in acupuncture (without the needles). This is to restore balance in the whole body, thereby promoting well-being, relieving stress and many specific health problems.

People find Shiatsu deeply restorative and pleasant to receive; they report better quality sleep, increased vitality, enjoyment, confidence and resistance to illness. Examples of problems that respond well to Shiatsu include:

Low energy levels, headaches, high blood pressure and most stress related symptoms. Back pain and arthritis. Circulatory, respiratory and digestive problems. Tiredness, depression and anxiety.

Some people have treatment for specific problems and there are many that respond well to Shiatsu; this is because it works on different levels, physically, mentally and emotionally and everybody is treated according to a diagnosis made, so that their individual needs are catered for. Some people come for support whenever they start to feel a need for a ‘lift’ and others have regular monthly treatment to maintain ease, comfort and feel good.

I qualified as a Registered General Nurse in 1985, also gaining counselling experience during ten months psychiatric nurse training. I have practiced Shiatsu for many years, working from home and at clinics. I graduated with the Shiatsu College in 1998, a three-year course, which included the study of Traditional Chinese Medicine.