Health and WellnessTherapies and complementary medicine Shiatsu

Meaning "finger pressure", this is a hands-on, Japanese healing therapy. Shiatsu focuses on improving the energy flow (or "qi") in channels ("meridians") throughout the body.

Shiatsu emerged in Japan in the mid 20th century as a form of manual therapy incorporating gentle manipulations and stretches influenced by newer disciplines such as physiotherapy and chiropractic, with pressure techniques exerted through the fingers or thumbs.

Shiatsu differs from massage as its main objective is not to work on localized muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client.

How does it work?

Reasons such as stress or injury disrupt the energy flow, inducing conditions and ailments. Applying pressure to meridians with thumbs, knuckles, fingers, palms, elbows, knees and feet, combined with rocking, stretches and joint rotations help unblock energy paths and improve energy flow. The client is to remain still and relaxed, allowing the practitioner to do all the work.

Shiatsu uses a holistic approach, working on the whole body at a physical, emotional and mental level.

What does it treat?

Regular sessions of Shiatsu help prevent the build up of stress. However, Shiatsu also helps treat a wide range of conditions, including:

• back pain
• headaches
• digestive problems
• whiplash injuries
• asthmatic symptoms
• neck stiffness
• sports injuries
• joint pain and reduced mobility
• depression
• menstrual problems

What else should I know?

Shiatsu is not recommended for cases of cancer, heart disease, epilepsy, osteoporosis or fractures.