What is Shiatsu?

Hip rotation


Shiatsu is a Japanese word meaning “finger pressure”. It is a hands-on therapy originating in Japan. The thumbs, palms, and fingers are used to apply pressure to designated areas of the body.

Everybody responds to touch. It is a natural ability that people are now beginning to recognize again. Shiatsu uses hand pressure and manipulative techniques to adjust the body's physical structure and its natural inner energies, to help ward off illness, and maintain good health.

It may help with:

  • stress
  • back pain
  • headaches and migraines
  • whiplash injuries and neck stiffness
  • joint pain and reduced mobility
  • menstrual problems
  • digestive problems
  • asthmatic symptoms
  • pregnancy and childbirth
  • the side effects of cancer treatment
  • sports injuries
  • depression

Prone stretch

A shiatsu treatment normally last about one hour. As shiatsu is given through clothing, please try and wear a loose top and trousers, preferably not jeans.