Home | Therapies | Shiatsu

What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a gentle touch treatment with a clear diagnostic framework. It is ideal for stress related disorders and preventative care It works on the meridian lines (energy pathways) and acupoints in your body. I use gentle pressure and stretching, depending on your current energy state. The one hour consultation will begin with a discussion about your health
history and treatment aims (all sessions are 1 hour). Shiatsu is usually done as you lie comfortable on a supportive mat on the floor.
Shiatsu can also offer insight into what is happening with you energy wise at the moment- and how that relates to your life. Shiatsu is used for emotional and physical conditions and also for general health maintenance. It offers a quiet space in the midst of busy lives and possible turmoil. It helps you to feel centred and in touch with your strengths as well as your difficulties. Tips are sometimes offered: things you can do to keep your health on track.
Is Shiatsu for me?
Clients usually find it relaxing, rejuvenating and value the quiet, supportive time. It can help you reconnect with your own strengths, feel more positive and offer new insights into your life and health. You don’t have to be super fit or super healthy to have a Shiatsu. You are not required to strip off as Shiatsu is done with you clothed. You can try one session and then book a series if you like. If you have been in hospital, it is possible to build Shiatsu sessions into your Care plan. Some clients come with physical problems, some with emotional/ mental health issues, and some for a general feel good session and health maintenance.
In our lives most of us at different times experience wellness and illness, happiness and sadness, energy and, exhaustion, confidence and anxiety in varying degrees. I find it encouraging that in Shiatsu all aspects are seen as important, contributing to wholeness. That even in our most frightened or dark times there is some level of wellness and light in us. Shiatsu is one way of helping us relax, and build on our strengths.
Who is it for?
Clients include mothers, construction workers, company directors, NHS staff, carers and also people with conditions limiting their ability to work. Men and women from a broad spectrum of ages, cultures and conditions choose to have Shiatsu.
I see both men and women, ranging in ages from 18-80!
Mobility is required (ability to climb stairs in Clinic).
The service is open to discharged hospital patients, those in continuing community MH care, carers, NHS staff, and the general public. Some clients may have Shiatsu written into their Care Plan and some may use Personal Budgets.
I see clients who have been affected by bereavement, work stress, exhaustion, job loss, shock, trauma, long term unemployment, loneliness, abuse issues, ethnic/ cultural difficulties, life crisis. People may present with loss of hope, panic attacks, body/ mind disassociation, numbness, anxiety, fear, trust issues, suicide attempts, self-harming, holding a lot of tension, agitatation, sleep difficulties, difficulty with verbal or emotional expression.
My clients also include those who want a general MOT or attention to a physical problem.
To benefit, clients need a basic level of insight.
To be interested in recovery and maintaining wellness/ independence.
Client quotes
‘The Shiatsu gave a sense of connection with another person and that then made it easier to connect with other people.’
‘The immediate impact is that I have more energy. I sleep better. My ability to deal with stress is greatly improved.’
‘I felt much calmer, more hopeful and accepting. Struggling less.’
‘Very beneficial physically and emotionally. Helped me focus and feel more in touch.’
‘I’m more confident and have more faith in myself. I have a much clearer idea of where I want to go with my life and how to get there.
‘Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of Shiatsu?
Relaxation, better sleep, improved mobility and blood circulation, fresh perspective, renewal of energy and hope.
Is it possible to have whilst I am on medication?
Yes, Shiatsu works with your health where you are now and treatment does not interfere with medication. It is a safe treatment with no toxic side effects and does not interfere with modern medical treatment.
Do I have to be ill to have Shiatsu?
No! Many clients use Shiatsu for a feel good hour and for health maintenance. I am a keen advocate of preventative care, as both time and cost effective!
Do I have to take my clothes off?
No, Shiatsu is done through your own loose, comfortable clothing.
How long have you practised?
20 years. In London and in Northamptonshire.
Why were you drawn to Shiatsu?
It is a very humane form of health care. It looks at the mind, the body, the emotions and all the things that can effect us. It has a framework that has always made sense to me, through my own ups and downs in life. I was a graphic designer originally and the emphasis on balance and harmony and the beautiful names of the acu-points has also always appealed to me!
I have had some serious problems, is Shiatsu still useful for me?
Yes, absolutely. Shiatsu looks at ways of reducing the stress or pain of immediate problem you are experiencing, but also looks to resolving the underlying causes.
Photograph used from “Shiatsu Society (UK)”
Interested in Shiatsu?
Call us on 01933 224454, or get in touch using our contact form to find out more, or to arrange an appointment at our Therapy Centre in Wellingborough with one of our therapists.