What Is Shiatsu Therapy?

Shiatsu therapy is one of the most popular Complementary and Alternative  therapies. Shiatsu, Japanese for finger pressure, is a non-invasive form of alternative medical therapy designed to stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. Shiatsu therapy improves your flow of the vital force and energy – known as Ki in Japanese or Qi in Chinese. Modern Shiatsu therapy shares much of its background theory with acupuncture and incorporates western medicine principles of anatomy physiology and pathology.

Modern Shiatsu practice shares much of its background theory with acupuncture and incorporates western medicine principles of anatomy physiology and pathology. While Shiatsu is based on the same principles as acupuncture, no needles are used. In Shiatsu therapy instead of needles,  pressure is applied to the body on specific points and along the body’s energetic meridians or pathways. The pressure can be applied by the therapist’s thumb, palm, elbow or foot and may include stretches for a short period of time. A single point might be pressed or specific meridian worked on to address a specific aliment or complaint.

While each treatment is specifically designed for you, Shiatsu therapy always includes passive stretching, rotation of joints and holding pressure along the energetic meridians that need attention. Shiatsu is traditionally performed on a futon mat with the client remaining clothed usually just wearing something loose and comfortable such sweat pants and a t-shirt. There is little or no risk in receiving a Shiatsu massage.

Does Shiatsu Therapy Really Help?

There is scientific evidence supporting the fact that Shiatsu therapy is effective in treating numerous health issues. Shiatsu therapy has been found to be particularly effective in the management of many acute and chronic conditions including:

• back pain
• headaches and migraines
• sciatica
• neck and shoulder pain
• carpal tunnel syndrome
• repetitive strain injuries
• muscle tension and spasms
• arthritis
• circulatory issues
• insomnia
• digestive problems
• constipation
• menstrual and menopausal difficulties
• chronic fatigue syndrome
• fibromyalgia
• anxiety and depression
• nausea and vomiting associated with pregnancy
• asthma
• sports injuries
• whiplash

Shiatsu therapy  is also known to reduce stress boost the immune system and enhance physical vitality and emotional well being. Your CST Certified Shiatsu Therapist will design and recommend a customized treatment program that is suited to your needs.

Who Can Benefit from Shiatsu Therapy?

Shiatsu therapy is acknowledged to be an important part of both preventative and rehabilitative health care programs. People of all ages including infants, children, pregnant women and the elderly experience lasting beneficial results from Shiatsu massage. Before commencing treatment your Shiatsu therapist will ask questions then evaluate your condition through observation listening and touch. Your Shiatsu therapy session is not just about treating your symptoms but about identifying the root cause of your symptoms.

The primary objective of your Shiatsu therapy session is to bring your entire body back into balance resulting in a stronger healthier you. After treatment most people experience relief from their discomfort including relief from pain increased flexibility a calmer mood and clearer mind. Many find that deep restful sleep comes more easily after repeated Shiatsu treatments. Normally you will feel relief from your complaint with one treatment but a series of treatments is usually recommended so that the root of your problem can be addressed. Routine Shiatsu treatment will also benefit you by keeping your immune system healthy and preventing the development of future health issues. Acute problems usually require 2-5 treatments chronic problems usually require 5-10 treatments or more. Treatments are usually taken once a week and treatment effects are cumulative.