What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu, like acupuncture, is based on Oriental medicine and aims to balance the body's energies through the use of acupressure massage techniques.

How can Shiatsu help?

Shiatsu deeply relaxes the body, calms the mind and produces a sense of well-being. It can help a range of conditions from specific injuries to general ill- health e.g. back pain, sports injuries, reduced mobility, depression, stress, low energy and digestive problems.

Philosophy

Vital energy (Ki or Chi) flows through the body in channels called meridians. These may become blocked, producing physical, mental or emotional ailments. Shiatsu aims to stimulate the flow of Ki through acupoints to create positive changes in energy patterns and achieve healthy balance.

What to expect from a session

Several techniques are used to contact the meridians, ease joints and muscles and improve breathing: gentle holding, pressure applied with palms, thumbs, elbows or knees, stretches and joint rotations.

Treatments are as gentle or as deep as required. The practitioner bases this on an initial detailed consultation and checking in throughout the session.

Shiatsu is practised on a futon on the floor or a couch. It can also be done seated if unable to lie down. The client remains fully clothed throughout.

Before and after...

• Please wear loose, warm, comfortable clothing, preferably cotton e.g. sweatshirt, tracksuit trousers and cotton socks.
• Do not eat heavily two hours prior to treatment and avoid alcohol.
• After treatment drink plenty of water to smooth the flow of changes through the system and rest if possible

Shiatsu at Hawthorn

Shiatsu at Hawthorn is provided by Gillean Carrol