Shiatsu Society Research Strategy

Shiatsu practitioners know from experience the profound impact Shiatsu can have on people’s physical, emotional, and mental well-being. However, despite its increasing popularity, Shiatsu therapy still faces significant hurdles for gaining broader recognition within mainstream healthcare. 

Co-created with SSUK members in 2025, our 2030 Research Strategy has been thoughtfully designed to provide a clear, evidence-based pathway toward NHS and ASA recognition. By systematically gathering robust scientific evidence, forming strategic healthcare partnerships, and empowering our practitioner community, we aim to elevate Shiatsu’s public and professional profile. 

Led by our Research Director, Kathi Bouchaar the main aims of SSUK research for the next five years are centered around three axes with the following roadmap:

Shiatsu Research: Why do we need more evidence?

There is data available to show that Shiatsu interventions can benefit a wide range of disorders and problems. Numerous research studies, articles, case studies and systematic reviews of Shiatsu, including randomised clinical trials, have been published in professional and peer-reviewed journals. As a result, the evidence base for Shiatsu is continuing to grow – in both quantity and quality. However, more research is needed. Read this article to discover more.