Shiatsu is an ancient form of Japanese bodywork based on Eastern Medical Theory. Like most forms of alternative health care, its primary function is to maintain health. Although shiatsu therapy is at its best used as prevention, it has proven quite effective in helping a variety of complaints. Shiatsu is an excellent way to reduce physical, mental, and emotional stress.

Also known as “acupuncture without needles”, shiatsu uses pressure and stretching on the body. Shiatsu pressure is given with thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees, and sometimes feet. The pressure improves circulation of blood, fluids, and nutrients in the body, and stimulates the parasympathetic, or “rest and repair”, aspect of the nervous system allowing the body to heal. In this way, shiatsu is an effective therapy for treatment of specific complaints, for general well being, as well as for relaxation.

The sustained pressure given in shiatsu is directed towards Qi, the energy that circulates in the body. In shiatsu theory, it is believed that meridians of energy flow throughout the body. Since body, mind, and spirit are one, working on the meridian system not only affects the muscles and joints encountered along the energy pathway but also has an effect on the related mental and emotional dimensions of the person.

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