Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing therapy. 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 Ki in Japanese) flows throughout the body in a series of channels called meridians. For many different reasons Ki can stop flowing freely and this then produces a symptom.
Your Shiatsu practitioner 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.
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.
Common conditions which have been helped by Shiatsu include:
- Back pain
- Headaches
- Whiplash injuries
- Joint pain
- reduced mobility
- Menstrual problems
- Digestive problems
- Asthmatic problems
- Sports injuries
- Depression
The benefits of Shiatsu include:
- Relaxation of mind and body
- Restoration and balance of energy
- Eases tension and stiffness
- Improved breathing
- Improved posture
- Improved circulation
- Enhanced well-being
By The Shiatsu Society
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