Shiatsu

What is Shiatsu ?

Shiatsu is a complementary therapy that is sometimes known as acupuncture without the needles. Shiatsu is the Japanese term for 'finger pressure'. Finger pressure is used to stimulate the flow of energy in the the recipient and thus to assist in the healing process. However this therapy is much more than just finger pressure. In Shiatsu hands, elbows, forearms, knees and feet are used also to stimulate the body's network of energy pathways or meridians. The stimulation of these meridians induces relaxation, aids healing, and promotes physical and mental well-being.

Pressure, sometimes firm, sometimes gentle, is applied to certain points along the meridians that correspond with specific parts of the body. In this way the Shiatsu therapist can treat specific areas of the body, or can provide a full body treatment

Shiatsu - Main Objectives of this Complementary Therapy

1) To engender calmness and deep relaxation.
2) To improve the body's immune system.
3) To balance and restore the body's energy levels.
4) To aid the removal of toxins from the body.
5) To promote a total feeling of well-being.
6) To create relief from many conditions that afflict the body.
7) To help to prevent many conditions from arising.
8) To improve posture and to relieve tensions and stiffness
9) To aid the digestive system

In order to realise these ambitions the Shiatsu therapist manipulates the Ki or energy within the body creating a communion between the therapist and the receiver.

How Does Shiatsu Work ?

The patient will lie on a floor mat or on a massage table. The Shiatsu therapist will employ his or her hands, elbows knees and feet to balance the body's meridians. By applying pressure to specific points along the meridians the therapist correct imbalances and consequently correcting medical conditions or injury. Shiatsu is a holistic therapy and so the whole being, from the physical to the emotional, is treated by the therapist. It is not unusual for patients to experience a range of feelings and emotions such as laughter, tears, elation or complete calmness. Such reactions demonstrate that the body is breaking free of old and damaging energy patterns.

What Happens During a Shiatsu Therapy Session ?

On the first visit to a Shiatsu therapist it is usual to examine all aspects of the patients style of life including diet, digestion, sleeping patterns, exercise levels and emotional state. The therapist will also inquire into the patient's medical background.

The Shiatsu treatment involves lying on a massage table or a floor mat. Patient's remain fully clothed but it is advisable to wear comfortable clothing. The therapist will apply gentle pressure in order to tap into and improve the body's energy flow or Ki. During the session the patient will be seated and lying and a number of different positions and the Shiatsu therapist my stretch certain parts of the body to enhance the beneficial aspects of the treatment.

What Specific Conditions can Shiatsu be used to Treat ?

Common conditions treated by a Shiatsu therapist are headaches including migraine headaches, food sensitivities, low energy, and digestive difficulties. Shiatsu can be used to treat the following medical conditions also, pain including neck and back problems, frozen shoulder, emotional stress, anxiety, fatigue, breathing difficulties, sports injuries, hay fever and other allergies, insomniaand other sleeping problems, and arthritis.

It can also help with general well-being, personal development and general lifestyle issues.

Irish Representative Body for Shiatsu

The main representative body for Shiatsu in Ireland is the Shiatsu Society of Ireland. Contact details are as follows:

Shiatsu Styles