Shiatsu Massage
Do you find it hard to relax or often feel stressed or anxious? or are you suffering from low energy levels? Do you have muscle, joint, back or neck pain? Do you suffer from arthritis or other physical complaints?
About Shiatsu
Shiatsu involves stretching and mobilisation of the joints. It creates a feeling of stillness and peace and is deeply relaxing and energising. If you have been feeling down, stressed, or anxious, or have stiffness, neck or back pain, or other physical complaints, Shiatsu works on physical, mental and emotional levels to heal.
Zen Shiatsu, as currently practiced in the UK, has been around since the 1970s. NHS trusts, NHS hospitals and mental health charities are now using Shiatsu to treat people for various health issues. Some centres use Shiatsu for the treatment of cancer, aids, cerebral palsy, stroke victims and substance abuse.
Shiatsu may help with:
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Shiatsu is an ancient oriental body therapy and is a recognised medical practice in Japan. It seeks to balance the body’s energy using fingers, palms, elbows and even knees to contact acupressure points and meridians. Chinese medicine is largely based on the premise that illness is caused by imbalances in the natural flow of energy throughout the body. Shiatsu massage aims to balance the sympathetic nervous system and in turn relieves muscle tension, improves circulation and helps to give emotional and physical wellbeing.
The Session
When you come for a shiatsu treatment make sure to wear loose comfortable, long sleeved clothing. Unlike some other types of massage, you remain fully clothed during your treatment. The shiatsu treatment is given on a futon on the floor.
Shiatsu has a cleansing effect, so make sure you drink plenty of water before and after a session as this helps you to detox.
After treatment many people feel very relaxed and invigorated and some people may even feel tired after treatment. This is due to the relaxation of muscles, the release of toxins and calming of the sympathetic nervous system. A day after treatment many people feel more energized.
The treatments usually last for one hour. Shorter sessions can be arranged if focus on one particular area is desired. Please tell me of any previous injuries you may have.
FAQ – Shiatsu (click on questions)
How is Shiatsu different from other types of massage?
Shiatsu is different from other types of massage in several ways. One main difference is that you remain fully clothed during your treatment. Shiatsu focuses on specific pressure points within the body to eliminate stress and restore a balance of energy throughout the body. Shiatsu is not merely the rubbing of muscles, but instead uses the fingers, palms, elbow and knees to relieve tension within the body. In addition to this Shiatsu also uses the stretching and rotating of joints and limbs to alleviate symptoms.
What happens during treatment?
In the first treatment, unless it is primarily for relaxation, I will ask about your health history and speak to you about any specific conditions you have. You will then lie on a futon and I will tailor your treatment based on the information you provide. Treatment lasts for one hour and I use my fingers, palms, elbows and knees to work on pressure points within the body. I also use rotating and stretching of joints and limbs to treat.
What should I wear?
You should wear lose fitting and comfortable, preferably cotton, long sleeved clothing and socks. A tracksuit or similar is ideal.
How does Shiatsu feel?
This is dependent on your specific conditions and pressure preference. Some people enjoy deep pressure while others prefer lighter pressure. The treatment should not be painful except for a small amount of ‘good pain’. If you should experience pain during your session please make this known so that I can make adjustments to your treatment.
Are all Shiatsu treatments the same?
No. I tailor your treatment specifically to your conditions. If you have continuous treatments you may find that each treatment has variations depending on the needs of your body.
What conditions may be benefited by Shiatsu?
Shiatsu may help with various conditions including: back/neck pain, muscle pain or tension, headaches, stress, anxiety, digestive problems, joint problems, depression and detoxification. It has also been used with people suffering from cancer, aids, cerebral palsy, strokes and substance abuse.
How many sessions are required?
This depends on your specific needs and conditions. Acute pain may be helped with one or more visits while those with chronic conditions may benefit from regular sessions.
How will I feel after a session?
Many people feel relaxed after treatment. Some people may even feel tired after their treatment. You may wish to rest for the first couple hours after treatment You should also feel energised after treatmen, if not on the same day then the day after. Many people sleep extremely well the night after their treatment. In some cases you may feel slight muscle pain in the days following treatment but this should only last for 1-3 days.
Do I need to do anything before/after a session?
I advise that you drink plenty of water both before and after treatment. Do not drink alcohol the day before or after your treatment and do not eat a big meal before treatment. If possible allow your body to rest the first 1-2 hours after treatment.
For more information call Jill on 0208 883 5378 or 07815 111502