Shiatsu

Curious about Shiatsu and wondering if this holistic therapy might be for you? Heard of Shiatsu and know it’s not a cute wee dog from China… but what is Shiatsu exactly, and why might it be a good fit for your self-care needs?

What is Shiatsu?

Unlike other forms of massage, this Japanese healing system has its roots in the traditions and philosophies of Chinese medicine and ties this ancient wisdom together with a Western understanding of physiology and anatomy. It’s a holistic physical therapy that supports and strengthens our body’s natural ability to balance itself, working not only at a physical level, but on emotional, mental and energetic levels too.

Shiatsu treatments use no tools - just touch - combining gentle pressure applied by the palms and thumbs, supported limb rotations, gentle movements and comfortable stretches. Shiatsu touch is simple and profound, bringing awareness to all parts of the body, invoking a deep relaxation which benefits mind, body and spirit. In that moment, your whole being has space and time to rebalance, rebuild and renew from within.

The Garden Studio

  • Treatments are adapted to suit everyone, regardless of age or ability. Jacqui offers Shiatsu upon a traditional floor futon, treatment table or massage chair which offers everyone a comfortable option.

    Unfortunately the Garden Studio is not suitable for wheelchair users.

  • Before your first session Jacqui takes a full health history, and at every other treatment she checks in with how you are. Every session is created to suit your specific needs at that moment, on that day. Treatments do not hurt, any discomfort is fleeting and you always have the option to stop the treatment at any time.

  • This gentle, non-invasive, complementary therapy is safe and works alongside conventional medical treatment. Shiatsu is never a substitute for medical therapy.

    If you have any concerns always check with your medical team first.

  • Unlike other massage practices the client remains fully clothed. Therefore you should wear or bring with you a change of clothing that is fresh, loose-fitting or stretchy. Shiatsu’s effectiveness is not dependant on contact with the skin, in fact long sleeves and full or capri length trousers best support most Shiatsu techniques. Fresh socks are usually worn during treatment, but if you forget to wear or bring a clean pair then a pair will be provided for the session. Accessories such as; jewellery, watches, fit bits, belts, hair clips or scarves are best removed before beginning, to allow access to pressure points and ease work around the head and neck.

  • Shiatsu works by rebalancing harmony within the body by supporting our ‘Ki’.

    Ah yes, I know… what is Ki? At its simplest Ki is ‘energy’ but includes all the ways in which our body maintains internal harmony. By supporting Ki, Shiatsu practitioners help the whole body to heal itself holistically - mind, body and spirit.

Known benefits:

  • Aches and pains can be eased and relieved by softening and soothing tension in different areas of the body

  • Eases stress levels and brings about a mindful state

  • The bodywork techniques affect blood flow and circulation, helping with natural elimination of toxins and waste products in our bodies

  • Improves range of motion and flexibility with the release of tension and tightness held in the muscles

  • Regulates the nervous system, shifting the brain and body into the rest rather than stress response which invokes a deep sense of relaxation and calmness

  • Beneficial for fatigue and sleep through the release of tension and stress in both mind and body