The Centre for Natural Health

An Introduction to Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a complementary therapy which originated in Japan.

The word when translated means finger pressure.

The basis of Shiatsu comes from the ancient Chinese therapy of Amma which developed alongside and has much in common with Acupuncture.

Like many other oriental therapies, it works on the body's life energy or Qi, using the network of meridians and points to be found upon the body. Although the literal translation of Shiatsu means 'finger pressure', during a treatment pressure may be applied by thumbs, fingers, palms, elbows, knees or even feet. It may also include stretching of the limbs, joint rotation and soft tissue kneading.

The aim of the treatment is to regulate the flow of Qi energy within the body and bring the body into balance and therefore good health. Shiatsu has been found to be beneficial to many conditions including stress, headaches, migraine, acute or chronic back pain, sciatica, muscular pain, rheumatic and some forms of arthritic pain and asthma. Sufferers of multiple sclerosis have also found benefit from this form of treatment when used regularly.

Occasionally a new patient may experience a healing reaction. This occurs when toxins are released during the treatment and as these are processed by the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness or symptoms similar to a head cold. These symptoms are only temporary and should pass within twelve to twenty-four hours. Drinking plenty of water and resting will help. Our therapist is available to answer any questions you may have before and after a treatment.

What to expect at your first Shiatsu appointment

First a detailed medical history will be taken and a detailed diagnosis of your condition made. This can take the form of questioning, touch, smell, listening and tongue diagnosis. This enables the treatment to be tailored specifically to each individual.

The treatment takes place at floor level, where you will be sitting or lying on a blanket or Japanese futon mattress. If this is difficult for you alternative arrangements can be made. You remain fully clothed throughout the treatment. Lightweight natural fibres and loose fitting clothes are best.

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Shiatsu is non-intrusive and no oils or lotions are used and therefore no foreign substances are introduced into the body, which in turn could cause unwanted side effects.

This means that Shiatsu can be safely used on clients of any age or build, babies and young children and also during pregnancy (although certain points would not be used during the early stages).

During the treatment the practitioner generally works over the whole of the body, not just the part that may be experiencing a problem.

The overall treatment should leave you very relaxed and with an overall feeling of well being.


On the day of your treatment...

DO have something light to eat about two hours prior to your appointment
DO allow enough time for the treatment so that you are not hurried
DO wear loose comfortable clothing, preferably made of natural fibres
DO rest afterwards and relax as much as possible
DO drink plenty of spring water to flush out toxins released by the treatment

but...

DON'T drink any alcohol on the day of treatment
DON'T eat large or heavy meals
DON'T exercise more then normal
DON'T take a very hot bath