About Shiatsu

Shiatsu, which means finger pressure in Japanese is an ancient therapy developed in Japan.

Shiatsu and most forms of Oriental bodywork differ from Western styles of massage. The main difference is that treatment is based on the same traditional medical theories as acupuncture & herbal medicine.

A Shiatsu practitioner therefore seeks to identify and correct the same imbalances in the body that the acupuncturist or herbalist would. But instead of using needles or herbs they use a variety of techniques to improve energy flow. These may include gentle pressure on the meridians, using the palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees or feet and, when appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches.

Shiatsu usually leaves the patient feeling invigorated yet relaxed.