Shiatsu is based on the ancient art of Japanese acupressure massage and the philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Shiatsu originated in China at least 2000 years ago, where it was discovered that causes of ailments and the remedies could be changed through simply a change in diet and a way of life. The use of massage and acupuncture was also recommended. In Japan the practise was developed into a particular technique of massage, it was known as anma or amma, ancient oriental massage. The therapy you get today has evolved from a mixture of East and West.
Shiatsu, meaning broken down, shi means fingers and atsu means pressure.
It has evolved more than just finger pressure, from amma which parts of the body were pressed or rubbed.
Shiatsu Treatment works on three levels:
Physical: When the Giver's finger or thumb makes contact with the skin of the Receiver, even through the light clothing recommended for receiving a treatment, heat is generated, melting the gel around cells in the vicinity. As the gel becomes a solution, suspended toxins are released into the lymphatic system to be eliminated through the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
Energetic: the solution better allows conduction of the Qi's healing message through the connective tissues and organ-meridian networks regulating the body-mind systems.
Mental/Spiritual: Connection with Spirit and conscious use of Intuition are supported by Intention:
Benefits of Shiatsu:
Improves general well -being
Release tension and promote relaxation
Back pain / Neck and shoulder pain
Headaches / migraines
Anxiety/stress
Insomnia
Arthritis pain
Frozen Shoulder
Tennis elbow
Whiplash
Shiatsu creates a feeling of good health in the whole person, not just in the physical sense. There are many benefits for both the giver and the receiver of shiatsu, both on a physical and spiritual level.
How does Shiatsu work?
Using physical touch to assess the flow of energy Qi throughout the body and thereby correcting imbalances by pressing, hooking, sweeping, rocking, patting, lifting, plucking lifting, rolling and brushing. Stretches are also used to manipulate by improving flexibility and allowing the energy Qi to flow around the body. Tonifying or dispersing energy, stretching, breathing, stress releasing and meditation techniques are utilized to bring the person into balance.
How safe is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is safe for everyone and particularly beneficial for pregnant women, though some adjustment is needed, even small children and the elderly can be treated.
The basic guidelines as to when and where not to give or receive Shiatsu are similar to those of any treatment which affects the flow of energy, blood and body fluids through the system. These would include times of high fever, especially when accompanied by local infection or inflammation or by infectious disease of any sort; cancer; heart disease; and areas where there may be cuts, bruises, scar tissue, injury or swelling.
However, since Shiatsu techniques vary from the very dynamic to the soft and gentle, it could still be possible to use the supportive quality of some of the holding techniques in most of these situations.
Shiatsu offered
Shiatsu Head Neck & Shoulders (20minutes)
I do it either in a massage chair or seated in a chair.
Massage covers: hands. arms, neck, shoulders, upper back, head and face
No oils used on body, you remain fully clothed, I use a body cloth.
Extremely good for relieving pain and tension in the upper body.
Shiatsu Full Body (1hour 15 minutes)
I do this on a mattress on the floor, or on a massage table - it covers the whole body.
After effects of Shiatsu
A deep relaxation occurs and the stimulus to the major body systems, you may have some healing reactions. Some people feel cold or flu-like symptoms, aches and pains, or headaches after the first treatment. These symptoms will only last for a day or so and usually subside with each subsequent treatment. If these symptoms persist, please consult a qualified physician immediately. In general, any such effects you may experience are positive signs from your body telling you it is making an attempt to correct its own condition in a natural way. These are signs of elimination and the beginning of the healing process.
