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 it might be a good fit for your self-care needs?
What is Shiatsu exactly?
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, and combine; 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, restore and renew from within
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Treatments are adapted to suit everyone, regardless of age or ability. Jacqui offers Shiatsu upon a traditional floor futon, treatment table or chair which offers everyone a suitable option. Unfortunately her Garden Studio is not suitable for wheelchair users
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Before your first session we take a full health history and at every other treatment we find out how you are, adapting each session to your specific needs. The treatment does not hurt, any discomfort is fleeting and you always have the option to stop the treatment at any time
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This gentle, non-invasive complementary therapy is safe and works alongside medical treatment - it is not a substitute for medical therapy
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Unlike other massage practices, in Shiatsu the client remains fully clothed, so it’s best to wear or bring 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 can be provided for the session. Accessories such as; jewellry, 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
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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; in 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 creates a mindful state by invoking a deep sense of inner peace
The bodywork techniques beneficially 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 by shifting the brain and body into the rest rather than stress response, and creating a deep sense of relaxation for the whole body
Beneficial for fatigue and sleep, helping release tension and stress holistically, and reconnecting with our ability to slow down and relax deeply