Shiatsu, meaning "finger pressure" in Japanese, is a methodology developed in Japan in the 20th century, influenced by Western massage and various Oriental techniques, forming a harmonious blend of Eastern and Western practices.
Within the realm of shiatsu, numerous schools and directions exist, with each practitioner infusing their unique approach into the treatment. Every session is customised to the specific needs of the individual client, recognising the unique requirements we all have.
The Japanese Ministry of Health, Welfare, and Social Security defines shiatsu as "a form of work applied with the thumbs, fingers, and palms, without the use of any instruments, mechanical or otherwise, to put pressure on human skin with the aim of correcting the work of internal organs, improving and maintaining health, and treating certain diseases". In Japan, the Ministry of Health has a comprehensive list of over 200 medical conditions for which shiatsu is the primary recommendation.
Touch lies at the core of shiatsu treatment. It serves as a profound means of communication, a direct expression of love and compassion for others. Touch can manifest in various qualities, ranging from being firm and mechanical to blissful, soothing, and intuitive.
All living beings respond to touch, and shiatsu treatment fulfils this essential need. The comforting touch employed in shiatsu stimulates self-help processes within the body, activating natural healing mechanisms.
- Depression
- Low back pain
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Premenstrual syndrome
- Painful menstruations
- Frequent inflammation of the bladder
- Thyroid problems
- Tension
- Insomnia
- Pain in the neck, shoulders and back
- Chronic fatigue syndrome
- Arthritic pains
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Nervousness
- Mechanical problems (inability to bend forward, raise your hand, tie your shoes...)
- Post COVID
- And many other symptoms associated with both mental and physical conditions of the body
- High temperature
- Infectious diseases
- Open wounds
- Shortly after surgery
- Vein thrombosis
Shiatsu treatment is performed on an individual dressed in comfortable clothes. It is advisable to wear suitable cotton clothing, preferably a cotton sweatshirt. Jeans should be avoided as they are more challenging to work on.
Ensure you do not come for treatment with a full stomach or bladder.
Remember to share information about any surgeries, long-term pain in a specific area, or occasional pain in a specific part of the body. Any information is welcome and helps adapt the treatment to your needs.
- Drink a bit more fluids
- Go to sleep by 10:30 PM
- The body finds a natural rhythm of functioning
- You should be able to sleep deeper and better
- You should feel more relaxed and better overall
- The real impact is felt after two good nights of sleep
- After the first good sleep, there is a "reset" (strong physical and mental exertion is not recommended)
- After two good nights of sleep, the full strength of the treatment sets in
- If you do not sleep well, the real impact of the treatment is delayed (up to a couple of days)
If your body's balance is disturbed, minor side effects can occur, usually passing within a short time (about ten minutes). This is a good indicator of your general condition. The most common side effects (in order of how often they occur) are:
- Experiencing cold/warmth
- Fatigue
- Feeling "intoxicated"
- Emotional outbursts (e.g. crying and/or laughing)
- Cough
- Tingling and pain
One common post-shiatsu occurrence is a sensation of coldness, typically dissipating within about 10 minutes. This indicates a slowed metabolism, often associated with an excess of fat tissues and sugar in the body. Following the treatment, the body self-regulates, redirecting energy to areas lacking it. The result is a temporary decrease in energy in a previously energised part, resulting in a sensation of coldness. Conversely, warmth indicates an energy flow interruption in a specific body part, and its elimination restores energy circulation at full capacity.
Feeling fatigued post-shiatsu is most frequent in individuals under significant mental tension. As the treatment releases tension, the body returns to its natural state, prompting an evident need for rest and sleep.
The phenomenon of feeling intoxicated post-treatment is often associated with head energy. Particularly common in those engaged in intense mental work and barely any physical activity, such individuals are advised against driving for the next 30-40 minutes. Instead, a leisurely walk is recommended.
Emotional outbursts coincide with stimulated energy flow and restored balance. These emotions may be linked to past suppressed feelings and expressing them through crying or laughing (or a combination) is encouraged.
Occasionally, coughing may result from the expulsion of excess mucus from the body.
Shiatsu treatment recalibrates established energy flows, returning the body to its natural state. Blockages are reduced or resolved, enabling energy to circulate more freely. This sudden shift can cause instant imbalances, leading to tingling or pain. It is also possible that too much time and/or pressure has been applied to a specific area. The amount of pressure and time applied during treatment varies significantly among individuals.
If tingling or pain persists after a day, it is advisable to contact a shiatsu practitioner. Seeking medical assistance may be necessary if needed.
Some individuals are disconnected from their bodies, perceiving only extremes of pain or no pain at all. Their worldview lacks the subtleties that enrich life. However, there is hope for them. By first teaching them to become aware and listen to their bodies, a transformational journey begins. With the desire for change, everything is possible.
Experienced shiatsu practitioners can assess both physical and mental health by observing the body. Through keen observation, attentive listening, olfactory perception, and tactile exploration, combined with insightful client queries, an overall diagnosis is achieved. This is referred to as "reading the body".
Shiatsu treatment fosters an encompassing sense of well-being, transcending the physical to the spiritual level. Working with the human body has been a source of joy for me since a young age, making shiatsu more than just a profession but a genuine pleasure. Although my personal explorations contributed significantly, attending the "Aura Vitalis" shiatsu school further enhanced and connected my knowledge. Witnessing small wonders inspired me to continue exploring and learning.
In my experience, regular shiatsu treatment has a robust preventive effect and is ideally applied at least once a month. In Japan, major companies employ shiatsu practitioners, reducing injuries and sick leave. Part of Japanese productivity could also be linked to shiatsu practitioners, probably. This preventive aspect is also recognised in Switzerland, where insurance covers 80 to 100% of shiatsu costs, leading to fewer illnesses.
Shiatsu can significantly impact disease treatment, particularly autoimmune diseases where the body's balance is disrupted, leading to self-fighting. I've achieved positive results in treating “classic” problems such as nerve pinching, difficulty walking without pain, or inability to raise a hand (90-92% problem resolution). Quick shiatsu response to back pain results in rapid discomfort alleviation. Starting treatment early yields faster results, avoiding the correction of long-term dysfunctions. The ultimate decision is always yours, but now you are equipped with all the necessary information.
On-site shiatsu treatments are also available, either at business premises or your home. We simply need to coordinate a time and place.
In any case, if you can't find your way back to your true self, come visit me, and I will help you find your way back!
