Shiatsu
How can Shiatsu help you?
If you would like to …
- reduce pain and tension in the body
- experience deep relaxation and a sense of peace
- feel looser and lighter
- re-align your body
- improve posture, digestion or breathing
- have more energy
- receive support for conception, pregnancy or post-natal
- address chronic physical or emotional patterns
… then Shiatsu is for you!
What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on healing therapy which originated in the Orient. It can help in a wide range of conditions- from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health.
Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular shiatsu sessions help to prevent the build up of stress in our daily lives.
The philosophy underlying Shiatsu is that vital energy (known as Qi) flows throughout the body in a series of channels called meridians. For many different reasons Qi can stop flowing freely and this then produces a symptom.
I will consider your state of health, the symptoms you are experiencing and, depending on your constitution and general energy levels, will use a variety of techniques to improve your energy flow.
These may include gentle holding, pressing with palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feet on the meridians and, when appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches.
As the quality of Qi changes, the symptoms associated with a lack of flow will gradually improve. Shiatsu is a therapy that works on the individual as a complete being - not just the physical body but also on an emotional and/or mental level.
What to expect in a session?
Each session lasts approximately one hour. The first session will be 30 minutes longer as I will take a detailed case history. This enables me to develop a complete picture of your health according to the principles of oriental medicine.
The session takes place on a padded mat or futon at floor level, although it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down. I sometimes work on a couch as well.
The client stays fully clothed.
Following a treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality and you may feel invigorated yet relaxed.
Guidelines for receiving Shiatsu
Please bring or wear loose, comfortable clothing, preferably cotton, e.g. sweatshirt, tracksuit trousers and clean socks.
Do not eat heavily in the two hours prior to treatment.
Do not drink alcohol before or after treatment.
After treatment drink plenty of water to smooth the flow of changes through the system.
If at all possible avoid strenuous or stressful activities after your session.
Text courtesy of www.shiatsusociety.org