Stress?
Headaches?
Back Pain?
How Can Shiatsu Help?
Shiatsu can:
- boost the immune system
- address insomnia for a good night’s sleep
- relieve back pain
- improve posture
- alleviated stress symptoms
- increase vitality and well-being.
What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a traditional energy system of bodywork; literally translated it means “finger pressure”. It seeks to gently adjust the body’s structure by unblocking the meridians or energy pathways, to provide a natural balance essential to good health.
The History of Shiatsu
Although Japanese, Shiatsu, originated in China. In about 530 BC a system of exercises for health, known as Tao-Yinn, were introduced. The system incorporated self-massage and pressure point therapy and soon became an integral part of Chinese health practice.
Chinese medicine was introduced to Japan by the tenth century AD. Here a combination of Anma (vibrational healing, acupressure and massage) and Tao-Yinn started to take the shape of present day Shiatsu.
The Japanese Ministry of Health & Welfare recognised Shiatsu as a therapy in the 1950’s, but it didn’t become known in the West until the 1970’s
The Treatment
This holistic treatment is carried out fully clothed on a padded mat (futon) on the floor. At the initial consultation a detailed case history will be taken. Your state of health and the symptoms you are experiencing will all be considered and depending on your constitution and general energy levels, a variety of techniques to improve your energy flow will be used. These include gentle holding, pressing with palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feet on the meridians. Also where appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches are used.
You should wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes and it is advisable not to eat a heavy meal beforehand. A session usually lasts about an hour.
Your Shiatsu Therapist
Angela Bushaway originally trained as a teacher but has always been fascinated by all things oriental. She has trained at the European Shiatsu School for three years and is a Reiki Master. She donates her time and skills to local hospices where she works with both patients and staff.