Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a therapeutic bodywork technique of Japanese origin that combines the principles of traditional Chinese medicine with modern anatomy and physiology.

The origins of shiatsu reach back into Chinese antiquity. In fact, shiatsu therapy evolved from Chinese acupuncture. Palpation skills were and continue to be an important component in the clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine. Indeed, palpation is one of the "Four Examinations" of TCM and is one of the skill-sets of a competent TCM practitioner.

In the sixth century A.D. a Buddhist monk, Gan Jin Osho, brought to Japan the medicine of Imperial China which included Oriental body-work, including Tao-yin and Anma. These manual physical therapies reached peak popularity in Japan during the Edo period between the 17th and early 19th centuries. By the start of the 20th century, increased training in Western anatomy led to greater melding of Eastern and Western techniques.

Japanese shiatsu therapy began to reach America in th 1950s. However, it did not become widely known in the United Sates and Europe until the 1970’s. The development of shiatsu schools in the West that offer thorough instruction in a variety of practice styles, as well appreciation of the benefits of this form of body-work among Western adherents, have resulted in the practice of shiatsu becoming more far reaching.

Shiatsu is a therapeutic body-work technique of Japanese origin that combines the principles of traditional Chinese medicine with modern anatomy and physiology.

Following the acupuncture meridians and acu-points, the shiatsu therapist uses fingers, thumbs, palms, elbows, and knees for preventative or remedial effect. Technique and pressure are adjusted for your specific needs and total comfort. Pressure is either gentle and soothing, or deeper to your level of tolerance.

Shiatsu is non-invasive, totally safe, and performed without oils through light, comfortable clothing.

Soothing kneading, pressing, tapping and stretching techniques are modified to be either stimulating or calming, depending on what is therapeutically indicated, with pressure and duration gauged according to the client’s condition, overall health status and goals. Treatment is accompanied by no unpleasantness and produces no side effects such as residual muscle pain. The purpose is to restore proper flow of Qi and blood and return you to balance. Shiatsu is beneficial for a wide range of internal, musculoskeletal and emotional conditions (including stress relief). It’s also great for hyperactive kids, allowing them to calm down and relax.

You are encouraged to wear loose-fitting clothing to your shiatsu session (or bring along comfortable clothing and change at the clinic). We also have clothing and gowns at HealthPoint for your use.