Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork. The direct translation of Shi-atsu is ‘finger pressure’, although Shiatsu is far from limited to just this.  The early foundations of Shiatsu are steeped in concepts from Traditional Chinese Medicine and the Meridian System. From these foundations Shiatsu established its own set of disciplines, forming a unique identity. Shiatsu to this day is an ever evolving therapy, continuing to grow and adapt, incorporating various movement based therapies and bodywork.

What to expect

A Shiatsu is done wearing loose clothing lying on a soft futon (mat on the floor).  

The practitioner will begin with inquiry of the body this may include listening to breath tracing the structure and landscape of body, palpation of the Hara (abdomen) and observation of the tongue and/or pulse. These are all diagnostic areas that correlate to function internally and externally. This will inform the direction of the treatment.

The following treatment will involve the movement and mobilization of joints and fascia, adjustment, stretching, palpation and kneading of muscles and meridians. The application of acupressure points and sometimes the use of  Moxabustion, Cupping or Gua Sha as guided by the body.

Hands, elbows, knees and sometimes feet will be used to work the body.  Shiatsu is a very adaptive practice, it can involve the use of great depth and pressure or subtle softer relief, vigorous movement or relaxed holding.

Shiatsu works within a holistic framework, supporting the body as a self-regulating organism, the practitioner works collaboratively with you to support this natural process, addressing the underlying condition guiding you back to a place of optimal function and balance.

From an Allopathic perspective some of the things Shiatsu is capable of are: supporting the Musculoskeletal system, Circulatory and Lymphatic system, as well as regulating the Autonomic Nervous system.

Shiatsu is first and foremost a consent centered practice, the aim being to facilitate an experience of your own bodies landscape in a safe and therapeutic environment.  Every session is unique as it is aimed at meeting your individual needs.

Examples of what Shiatsu can address and assist:

• Chronic muscle and joint pain

• Inflammation

• Injury Recovery

• Sciatica

• Chronic stress

• Sleep Disturbances

• Pregnancy and Postnatal care

• Hormonal Disturbances

• PCOS

• Endometriosis

• Menopause

• Digestive Issues

• Chronic Illness

• Fatigue

• PTSD

• Anxiety

• Depression

Shiatsu has a broad scope of issues it can support, these are just some examples. As a holistic form of bodywork, Shiatsu can happily integrate alongside other forms of Holistic or Allopathic therapy, especially when there is a need to outsource and integrate bodywork into the treatment plan.

Any questions Email: three.streams.shiatsu@gmail.com