Introduction to Shiatsu

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a form of healing through touch, which has its origins thousands of years ago in Japan and was more recently formalised into its modern form over a hundred years ago. It is now quite widely practised in the UK and throughout the world. The receiver is supported to become more aware of their body/mind as an integrated whole, on either a conscious or subconscious level. They become aware of areas of tension or weakness on either a physical or emotional level and through this process healing occurs.

Shiatsu shares much of its background theory with acupuncture and it has been referred to as acupuncture without needles. However it also draws on other bodywork traditions, including massage and soft tissue work. Like acupuncture, Shiatsu stimulates the body's vital energy (known as ki). Instead of needles, pressure is applied to various parts of the body and stretches, rocking movements and some massage type techniques are used. Shiatsu is calm and relaxing in nature, yet dynamic in effect; the body begins to re-adjust itself and healing takes place.

Some practitioners work to support the integration of change by supporting the hands on work with other modalities such as exercise and breath awareness, dietary therapy, physotherapeutic and mediative practices.

Healing-Shiatsu

Suzanne did her original training in Healing-Shiatsu with Sonia Moriceau. This approach was developed out of Sonia’s extensive years of training and practise in Zen Buddhism. By understanding the whole being, through the breathing pattern, posture and mental attitude, practitioner and client can reach to the true origin of the dis-ease, be it mental or physical.

Who can benefit from Shiatsu?

Since Shiatsu is working with the whole person, rather than simply focusing on conditions, most people, ill or healthy, and of all ages from babies to the elderly can potentially benefit from it. Shiatsu is extremely useful in enhancing health and vitality and many people use it as part of a stress management or preventative health care programme. Shiatsu is also excellent if you are feeling unwell but are suffering from no known medical condition. You do not have to be sick to benefit from Shiatsu, nor do you have to have a name for your condition.

People come to shiatsu for all kinds of reasons and they may come with specific ailments ranging from the acute to the more chronic. They may come presenting with structural problems such as bad necks, backs or poor posture, as well as conditions like menstrual difficulties, skin disorders, digestive problems and migraines or with more psychological issues such as depression or stress. Often people seek out shiatsu during major times of change like adolescence, infertility, pregnancy, the menopause and adjusting to later life.

What does a Shiatsu session involve?

Suzanne normally begins by giving time for sharing any relevant issues. This is followed by 40 -50 minutes of hands on work, a short rest and then feedback. Suggestions may be worked out together for exercises or activities which support the work of the session.

The work is usually done on a futon, a light cotton mattress on the floor. If people don't want to, or are not able to, lie down, sitting or other positions can be used. It is recommended to wear loose fitting clothes; tracksuit bottoms or light cotton trousers are ideal. Avoid having a heavy meal before the session. It is advisable to rest for at least one hour afterwards, as the process continues after the actual session is over. The effects may be experienced immediately, or after several days.

How often would I need to come?

The whole process is very individual and is tailored to each person's needs. Most people begin coming at 2 or 3 week intervals. They may then decide to come monthly, or as they need to, which may only be every 6-8 weeks. In acute conditions, such as bad back, or severe depression, people will probably come weekly until they begin to feel better.

Appointments

Suzanne Yates works from her home in Bristol. She is also available for home visits.

Gift vouchers are available.

To book an appointment please e-mail me.

Othre practitioners - the Well Mother register

If you are in another part of the country and want practitioners who are specialised in maternity work, then you can go to the register of students who have completed study with Suzanne.

If you want a shiatsu from someone who is not necessarily specialised in maternity work, you can contact the local national register of Shiatsu practitioners

Some national Shiatsu regulating bodies

UK Shiatsu Society (Shiatsusociety.org) or CNHC registered www.cnhcregister.org.uk
Europe www.shiatsu-esf.org
USA AOBTA www.aobta.org
Ausstralia Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia www.staa.org.au
France www.ffst.fr