Shiatsu

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu an oriental bodywork therapy using touch to promote physical health, relaxation and emotional calm.

The word ‘shiatsu’ means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese, although a practitioner will also use thumbs, palms, knees and elbows where appropriate. Sessions usually take place on a padded mat or futon at floor level with the client fully clothed and various holding, stretching and pressure techniques are applied to the whole body. The quality of touch can be very gentle or more vigorous, depending on the constitution and health of the client, and is suitable for both the fit and healthy and the elderly or chronically ill.

Regular shiatsu can be effective in preventing illness as it helps to relieve muscular tension, stimulates the circulation and auto-immune system and assists the nervous system.

Shiatsu can help with:

  • Aches and pains – neck stiffness, back pain, whiplash, sports injuries, sciatica
  • Increase mobility around joints 
  • Digestive problems – IBS, bloating
  • Stress related symptoms
  • Increasing vitality
  • Insomnia
  • Headaches, migraine
  • Menstrual problems
  • Depression and anxiety

Therapists: Trisha Hills, Alison Thompson

Relevant links