Shiatsu is a form of bodywork which came from Japan and has been developing in the West since the 1970's. There are now many great teachers and practitioners in the UK and a wide Shiatsu network governed by The Shiatsu Society (UK)


  Shiatsu translates as 'finger pressure' and is based on the same meridian (energetic line) network as acupuncture. In shiatsu we don't use needles but we do use fingers, elbows, knees, bodyweight, manipulation and joint rotation to work with the body's 'ki' or energy. The person receiving Shiatsu wears loose, comfortable clothes and lies on a futon or padded mat on the floor.


  Shiatsu can be very gentle and meditative with lots of holding; it can also be very strong and dynamic. Each treatment is unique and the practitioner holds and moves the receiver while tuning in to their 'ki' or energy and asking 'what does this person need?'


  Shiatsu is used for many reasons - because it feels good and maintains health and wellbeing, for physical pain (bad back, tense neck and shoulders, injury) or to help with an emotional trauma. It is also used for depression, panic attacks, during pregnancy and labour, and as a support during an illness such as cancer.