Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on healing therapy. Originally developed in Japan thousands of years ago, it is now widely practiced throughout the world.

The philosophy underlying Shiatsu is that vital energy (or Ki) flows throughout the body in channels called Merdians. This flow can be impaired, or may stagnate due to stress, illness, injury or poor eating and sleeping habits.

The therapist uses a variety of techniques including gentle yet firm holding, pressure with palms, fingers, thumbs, elbows, knees and feet on the Meridians, dynamic stretching of the limbs and gentle rotations of the joints to promote and balance the flow of energy through the body.

Most people, of all ages from babies to the elderly, can benefit from Shiatsu treatments. Shiatsu is also therapeutic and supportive for women during pregnancy, and post-natally to rebalance the body and treat fatigue and discomfort.

Shiatsu can also be helpful in strengthening a person’s immunity, restoring vitality, increasing physical, emotional and mental well-being and is a deeply relaxing experience.

Besides being used as a preventative health treatment system, Shiatsu may provide relief for:

  • Stress and related illnesses
  • Musculo-skeletal problems
  • Headaches, Migraines
  • Menstrual problems
  • Infertility
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Digestive, respiratory or skin disorders
  • Those experiencing times of major change e.g. Adolescence, pregnancy, menopause, separation and divorce, work changes, retirement and bereavement.

Most conditions respond well to Shiatsu. However, it is also important to notice how the person responds as a whole rather than just treating a specific condition.

The client remains fully clothed. Loose, comfortable clothing is recommended. The treatment takes place on a futon on the floor and involves the practitioner using mainly palm and finger pressure to diagnose the client. It is not advised to eat a heavy meal prior to a shiatsu session, or to drink alcohol immediately after treatment. A rest for at least an hour after the treatment is recommended as the process continues after the actual session is over.

The effects may be experienced immediately or after several days.

The process is very individual and tailored to each person's need. Most people come at 2 to 3 week intervals, which they gradually extend to monthly. In acute conditions (e.g. Severe depression) people may need to come weekly until they begin to feel improvement.


© Revitalize Health Practice Limited, New Zealand 2006

Shiatsu can also be helpful for strengthening a person's imune system, restoring vitality, increasing physical, emotional and mental well-being and is a deeply relaxing experience