Shiatsu

Shiatsu means finger pressure, and as a form of bodywork it combines a highly tuned sense of touch with an understanding of the body and mind. Developed in Japan from a form of Chinese medicine called ‘Anma’ it draws on many traditional aspects of oriental medicine and also combines western techniques of manipulation to form a complete system of healing through touch.

Shiatsu techniques involve stretching and leaning body weight into various parts of the client's body to improve energy circulation, flexibility and posture. Pressure is applied through the hands, fingers, thumbs, knees, elbows and feet with the client sitting or lying in various positions.

Treatment is focused along the energy lines or channels called meridians. A Shiatsu therapist uses the treatment to aid the flow of energy along these lines and bring the organs and elements in the client’s body back into balance and alignment. As the body regains health and harmony, so the mind becomes relaxed.

Treatment

A Shiatsu session lasts about 40 to 60 minutes. The treatment is given with the client fully dressed but preferably wearing loose fitting clothes of natural fibre to allow for movement.

Treatment takes place on a comfortable mat at floor level in a warm, relaxing atmosphere. A case history is taken to ascertain the problem and the treatment required. The therapist will then take a diagnosis using various methods to determine which elements and organs are out of balance. Once the diagnosis is complete the treatment is ready to begin.

As the client relaxes, the therapist begins a series of stretching techniques to loosen the tension in the client’s body. Applying gentle pressure along the meridian lines, this encourages a deep relaxed state that allows the therapist to ‘connect’ with the client’s energies and any blockages in the meridian channels around the body.

Afterwards one experiences a heightened sense of well being in the mind body and spirit, leaving one relaxed and energised.

The number of sessions needed will vary with each individual, the deeper the problem the more treatments will be required to effect change.

Shiatsu can help many specific problems including:

• Headaches And Migraine
• Respiratory Illness
• Digestive Disorders
• Insomnia
• Menstrual Irregularities
• Tension
• Anxiety
• Stress
• Depression,
• Arthritic Complaints
• Back Problems
• Sports Injuries

Shiatsu is a wonderful way to improve your health and the general condition of your body.

The greatest gift one can share is that of acceptance, arising from the true understanding of human nature and the origin of suffering.
The responsibility of the practitioner is not so much about changing the individual, but more about guiding, re-educating and holding.
Healing can now occur at its own pace in an unforced manner.

Some helpful information:

• If possible please wear loose fitting clothes of natural fibre to allow for movement.
• Do not have a large meal prior to treatment
• Do not have a HOT bath prior to treatment

Stephen Coburn BEM. EFT – ADV.. MBCMA. DS. Dip Vib Med

Stephen has been studying and practising Shiatsu and Oriental Therapy since 1991, and graduated with the Bristol School of Shiatsu and Oriental Medicine.