Shiatsu – which literally means “finger pressure” – is a form of body therapy which origitated in Japan 4000 years ago. It is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, combined with a modern understanding of Western anatomy and physiology. It is very much a “hands on” method of preventive health care which increases vitality, relieves fatigue and stimulates the body’s natural healing power.
Shiatsu occupies a place between Acupuncture (without needles), Massage (no oil and through clothing), Yoga (using stretching techniques) and Healing (touch). It is a non-invasive therapy where treatments take place fully clothed on a soft mat on the floor. It offers the warmth of a caring touch in a safe environment and has a very distinctive feel which is unlike any other form of bodywork.
Having originally come from Switzerland to study English and teach French, I became interested in complementary therapies as early as 1990. In 1995, I had become a Reflexologist, having studied at the International Institute of Reflexology. I am a member of the Association of Reflexologists (MAR). In 1998, I completed a 3 years professional diploma in Shiatsu at the European Shiatsu School in London. The training involved studying the theories and practise of Traditional Medicine and Zen Shiatsu, combined with western anatomy, physiology and pathology. I also went on to do a post-graduate course with the Shiatsu College in 2001. In 2004, I obtained a diploma of Seated Acupressure Massage in Eastbourne. I am a full member of the register of the Shiatsu Society (MRSS).
Shiatsu
Shiatsu, which literally means finger pressure in Japanese, was developed from traditional oriental massage. It works on the body’s energetic system, through the network of meridians relating to the functioning of our internal organs as well as our emotional, psychological and spiritual harmony.
Shiatsu occupies a place between Acupuncture (without needles), Massage (no oil and through clothing), Yoga (using stretching techniques) and Healing (touch). It offers the warmth of a caring touch in a safe environment and has a very distinctive feel which is unlike any other form of bodywork. It is practised at floor level, therefore both you and your practitioner feel very grounded; people often fall asleep during a session and afterwards feel very relaxed, with a sense of wellbeing and peace. Others may feel invigorated and ready to get up and go.
In a Shiatsu session, the practitioner uses pressure with thumbs, fingers, palms, and sometimes elbows, knees and feet. Therefore, a very close contact is established between you and your practitioner. The treatment is sometimes dynamic; sometimes very still. It involves pressure and stretching to facilite mobility of the limbs and joints, kneading to release tightness of muscles, and calming support on areas of weakness.
Who can benefit from Shiatsu?
Most people can benefit from Shiatsu as it is a therapy that treats the whole body. Shiatsu has the unique ability to treat and diagnose at the same time, so that even if you came with a stiff shoulder, you will soon realise that, whilst being helped in this particular area, your whole body will benefit from the treatment.
People come because of physical tension, or maybe going through emotional difficulties, needing stimulation or indeed calming down. People come for all sorts of reasons, as we are often out of touch with our bodies and our needs, and Shiatsu can help to re-establish this contact.
Receiving Shiatsu can also be a very good way of preventing problems arising and of maintaining your wellbeing. Some people like to have the occasional top-up session; others prefer to have regular treatments: it all depends on your own state of health and also what you hope to gain from the treatments. Like with your car, put some petrol in when needed, give it a regular service , and make sure it has its annual MOT !
About the treatment
The session usually lasts one hour. The first session will be a little longer, preceded by a consultation, so that your practitioner can develop a complete picture of your health, according to the principles of oriental medicine.
The session usually take place on a padded mat on the floor (although it is possible to receive Shiatsu on a specially designed chair). You remained fully clothed and it is advisible to wear comfortable warm loose clothing. Following the treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality and you may feel invigorated, yet relaxed on a deep level.
Benefits of Shiatsu
- It relaxes mind and body
- It restores and balances energy
- It eases tension and stiffness
- It improves breathing
- It improves posture
- It improves circulation
- It enhances well being
Conditions which have been helped by Shiatsu
- Back pain
- Joint pain and reduced mobility
- Shoulders and neck stiffness
- Headaches and Migraines
- Digestive problems
- Breathing difficulties
- Menstrual problems
- Sports injuries
- Anxieties and Depressions
- Stress
Acupressure
Seated Acupressure Massage is based on Shiatsu and its sequence takes place on a specially designed chair. It is applied through clothing. You may have seen it performed at the airport, in shops or offices. It is a quick but very effective stress buster.
Like Shiatsu, it uses stretches (extremely helpful for stiff shoulders!) and focussed pressure on acupressure points which are located throughout the body on meridians or lines of energy.
These points are stimulated using finger and elbow pressure, with the addition of kneading, percussion, mobilisation and stretching. These techniques balance the flow of energy and stimulate the muscular, nervous, lymphatic, immune and circulatory systems. The sequence promotes a sense of well being and reduces stress.The treatment lasts half an hour and covers the whole of the back, the neck, the shoulders, the head, the arms and hands.
You will feel beautifully relaxed at the end of the treatment.
Reflexology:
Reflexology is considered as a Meridian therapy in which the energy lines link the hands and feet to various parts of the body. In reflexology, the practitioner applies gentle pressure to specific reflex points on the feet to stimulate an involuntary response in organs and glands in the body, helping them to function normally.
Reflexology provides a relaxing treatment helping to relieve stress and tension, to stimulate the circulation, improve the nerve functions and to allow the body to heal itself naturally.
Reflexology is a massage technique applied to the feet. It is a wonderful way of activating the healing powers of the body, which help restore balance and good health. However there are still many people who do not know quite what to expect, or know how Reflexology can benefit them.
The Father of Reflexology William Fitzgerald (1872-1942 ) said
“Reflexology is the application of specific pressure to reflex points in the hands and feet”
This therapy goes back much further than this and has been known for many thousands of years. It was first practised by the early Indian, Chinese and Egyptian peoples. There is a painting on the wall of the tomb of Ankhmahor at Saqqara in Egypt depicting Hand and Foot Reflexology.
So “What is Reflexology?”
Reflexology is a Complementary Therapy that works on the feet or hands enabling the body to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in a state of “imbalance”, and vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and encourage healing.
A Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy are unique. Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points, a Reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself.
“Who can benefit from Reflexology?”
Since reflexology treats the whole person, not just the symptoms of disease, most people benefit from treatment.
“What happens when you go for a Treatment?”
There are many Reflexogists practising and there will be differences in the way they work. We are all trying to achieve the same. There is a therapy and therapist out there for everyone when their mind is set on the complementary medicine approach.
On your first visit there is a preliminary talk with the Reflexologist and then work begins on your feet, noting problem areas. There may be discomfort in some places, but it is fleeting, and is an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. For the most part the treatment is relaxing and soothing.
A treatment session lasts for up to an hour. A course of treatments varies in length depending on your body’s’ needs. This will be discussed with you. Some people need one session, others up to six sessions and they continue for maintenance, taking a break sometimes and coming back again. It is really so individual. All we ask is that you know you want a Reflexology session and you know you have made adequate time for yourself to fully appreciate the benefits.Reflexology helps us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives. At the end of the treatment, you will feel calm and relaxed or energised if that is what you need.
Reflexology has been known to be effective for
I have my own practice in Punnetts Town (01435 830 564) and also work at the Horam Natural Therapy Centre (01435 812997)