What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is a physical therapy that supports and strengthens the body’s natural ability to heal and balance itself. It works on the whole person - not just with the physical body, but also with the psychological, emotional and spiritual aspects of being; using touch, movement, stretches as well as pressure points to unblock and balance the body's Ki.
Shiatsu originated in Japan from traditional Chinese medicine, with influences from more recent Western therapies. Although shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese, in practice a practitioner uses touch, comfortable pressure and manipulative techniques to adjust the body’s physical structure and balance its energy flow. It is a deeply relaxing experience and regular treatments can alleviate stress and illness and maintain health and well-being.
Before treatment
Try to book your appointment on a day when you do not have any taxing commitments afterwards. The more you can relax after the treatment the more effective it will be.
Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes and maybe an extra layer of clothing e.g. sweatshirt or jumper, as you may feel more sensitive to the cold after the treatment
If you have just eaten before the treatment, ensure that you are neither too full nor too hungry.
If you are unable to make your appointment please let me know as soon as possible. If you give less than 24 hours notice you will be charged for the full amount for the session
Please be on time for your appointment
If there is a chance you are pregnant please let me know
If you are taking medication please bring a written list of the product names and dosage
After treatment
Allow yourself some time in case you feel the need to sit down quietly for a while straight after the treatment. This is especially important if you are driving home
As far as possible do whatever you feel you want to after the treatment: often this can be sleeping or walking, laughing or crying. Whatever it is just allow it to happen, as this is how your Ki (energy) wants to move
It is advisable to avoid alcohol and/non-prescription drugs
If you have any questions about any of these points please contact Cat
Shiatsu is a holistic therapy, primarily to help you redistribute your Ki more comfortably and secondly to alleviate symptoms. Though symptom improvement can often be swift, this is not always the case and some chronic symptoms may take longer to improve
