What is Shiatsu?

Literally translated, Shiatsu means “Finger pressure”. It is a Japanese therapy based on sustained application of pressure primary with thumbs to selected acupressure points in the body. The therapist may also use palms, elbows and occasionally knees to apply pressure. Shiatsu and Acupuncture therapy are based on Oriental medicine, an ancient form of healing which uses body’s own mechanism to heal itself and helps the patient to be aware of his body. From the Western view, shiatsu is explained through its effect on the autonomic nervous system which relaxes the internal organs improving body functioning.

Benefits of Shiatsu

Shiatsu and Acupuncture effectively promotes health and supports the healing process of a variety of conditions. It can benefit children, seniors, athletes, musicians, dancers and pregnant women. If you are healthy, shiatsu helps to keep your body balanced and to increase your resistance to disease.

Benefits of Shiatsu in pregnancy

Shiatsu treatment can turn a woman’s desire to conceive into an easy and positive experience.

Treatment focuses on applying gentle and firm pressure along the spine to stimulate the autonomic nerve system (ANS) to relax the body.

The ANS controls contraction of the uterus and phalopian tubes and  improves  the ovary’s ability to produce healthy eggs and hormones.

It also helps…

Increases blood flow to the uterus which facilitates fertility .

Boosts production of endorphins, the body’s feel-good chemicals that helps to relieve pain and reduce stress.

Relieve common symptoms of pregnancy such as morning sickness, insomnia, backaches, neck and shoulder tension.

Helps the baby to get into an ideal position for labour, strengthens contractions, and helps the baby’s descent.

Indications of Shiatsu and Acupuncture

Shiatsu and acupuncture are indicated in the treatment of many acute and chronic conditions, including:

• Digestive problems
• Headaches/migraine
• Neck and shoulder pain
• Discomforts in pregnancy
• Sciatica
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Whiplash
• Repetitive strain injuries
• Muscle tension and spasms
• Menstrual problems
• Infertility
• Impotence
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Asthma
• Arthritis
• Stress
• Depression
• Circulatory problems
• Discomfort in pregnancy
• Kidney disease
• Multiple sclerosis and elimination problems

Is there any reactions to treatment?

Shiatsu may produce side-effects of headache, fatigue, changes in energy and muscle soreness as a result of deep stimulation of the muscles. If you have an old problem that was not healed properly it may come to the surface as your body is trying to get rid of it.

These reactions are considered positive side effects, they are perfectly normal and will subside within 1-3 days. Treatments are generally administered weekly or every two weeks depending on client’s condition and how his/her body responds to treatment. If the problem is acute, two treatments a week may be necessary. If the condition is chronic, 5 to 10 treatments once a week may be required. For Acupuncture treatments disposable needles are used. Your therapist will help you to set a program which best suits your need and also suggest other alternatives to benefit your health.