Shiatsu
What is shiatsu & how does it work?
According to Traditional Meridian Theory there is a system of pathways or meridians traversing the entire body. Ki (which literally means 'vital energies') flows through these meridians. Ki is the energy associated with any movement, be it the movement of the sea, wind or blood. All things must have Ki to exist and to move.
A Tsubo (acupressure point) is any point along the surface of the meridian where Ki can be influenced by pressure. Tsubos can be used to affect the health of the Body-Mind.
It is said that in good health there is smooth flow of Ki through the meridians and the Body-Mind, but with imbalances in our lifestyle, diet, emotions and environmental influences, this flow is disturbed.
What conditions can shiatsu treat?
Shiatsu is used to treat many:
It is also used for:
Shiatsu is also used to prevent illness and the negative effects of stress on the body. It is also effective where the person is not clinically sick, but not really well either (eg. low energy, poor sleep, anxiety, poor appetite).
One does not have to be unwell to benefit from Shiatsu. As part of a positive and healthy approach to other aspects of one's lifestyle Shiatsu provides a nice balance.
What is the difference between shiatsu and massage?
Shiatsu is a full body treatment and it works to re-balance Ki. The pressure is firm, downward and held for 3-7 seconds, or longer on depleted points.
The practitioner also uses stretches, mobilisation, breathing techniques and teaching of corrective exercises. The client's lifestyle is looked at and suggestions are made about how the person can improve their own health.
What does a Shiatsu session involve?
A Shiatsu session lasts from one to one and a half hours. The person receiving a Shiatsu lies on a futon (Japanese cotton filled mattress) on the floor.
At the initial visit you will be asked a number of questions relating to your symptoms and state of well being. This is done so that the practitioner can gain an understanding of your problem.
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a session. Any pain or discomfort felt before the session is usually reduced and there is a sense of lightness and wellbeing. It is important to relax, or at least slow down, after the treatment so as to gain the most benefit.
Shiatsu is done through the clothing so it is important that you wear loose fitting pants and top, preferably made from natural fibre.
Occasionally there may be an apparent worsening of the condition the day after the treatment, but this soon improves. You may feel a little cold after Shiatsu so keep warm; avoid drafts and the wind.
Audrey
What is shiatsu & how does it work?
According to Traditional Meridian Theory there is a system of pathways or meridians traversing the entire body. Ki (which literally means 'vital energies') flows through these meridians. Ki is the energy associated with any movement, be it the movement of the sea, wind or blood. All things must have Ki to exist and to move.
A Tsubo (acupressure point) is any point along the surface of the meridian where Ki can be influenced by pressure. Tsubos can be used to affect the health of the Body-Mind.
It is said that in good health there is smooth flow of Ki through the meridians and the Body-Mind, but with imbalances in our lifestyle, diet, emotions and environmental influences, this flow is disturbed.
What conditions can shiatsu treat?
Shiatsu is used to treat many:
- musculo-skeletal problems;
- after-effects of illness and injury; and
- stress related problems.
It is also used for:
- relaxation;
- general "tune-ups"’ and
- gynaecological conditions such as PMT and period pain.
Shiatsu is also used to prevent illness and the negative effects of stress on the body. It is also effective where the person is not clinically sick, but not really well either (eg. low energy, poor sleep, anxiety, poor appetite).
One does not have to be unwell to benefit from Shiatsu. As part of a positive and healthy approach to other aspects of one's lifestyle Shiatsu provides a nice balance.
What is the difference between shiatsu and massage?
Shiatsu is a full body treatment and it works to re-balance Ki. The pressure is firm, downward and held for 3-7 seconds, or longer on depleted points.
The practitioner also uses stretches, mobilisation, breathing techniques and teaching of corrective exercises. The client's lifestyle is looked at and suggestions are made about how the person can improve their own health.
What does a Shiatsu session involve?
A Shiatsu session lasts from one to one and a half hours. The person receiving a Shiatsu lies on a futon (Japanese cotton filled mattress) on the floor.
At the initial visit you will be asked a number of questions relating to your symptoms and state of well being. This is done so that the practitioner can gain an understanding of your problem.
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a session. Any pain or discomfort felt before the session is usually reduced and there is a sense of lightness and wellbeing. It is important to relax, or at least slow down, after the treatment so as to gain the most benefit.
Shiatsu is done through the clothing so it is important that you wear loose fitting pants and top, preferably made from natural fibre.
Occasionally there may be an apparent worsening of the condition the day after the treatment, but this soon improves. You may feel a little cold after Shiatsu so keep warm; avoid drafts and the wind.
Audrey