Which Problems Can Shiatsu Help?

Shiatsu can be used to treat a variety of minor problems such as insomnia, headaches, anxiety, back pain, constipation, skin irritations, etc.

Shiatsu improves health generally by relieving stress, calming the nervous system and stimulating the circulatory and immune systems.

It is particularly effective for stress-related tension and illnesses, insomnia, back pain, headaches and digestive upsets.

However, through its stimulation of the hormone system Shiatsu can also affect the digestive and reproductive systems.

Apart from bringing relief to symptoms, Shiatsu gradually corrects long term postural and behavioural imbalances leading to improved body/ mind awareness and a general sense of well­being and peace of mind.

It is possible that one session of Shiatsu will be sufficient to remedy the problem by stimulating the flow of energy along the channels. This may be followed by recommendations for regular exercises and a possible change in diet and/or lifestyle.

Shiatsu invokes a general feeling of good health in the whole person, not just in the physical sense. There are many benefits for both the giver and the receiver of Shiatsu, both on a physical. and spiritual level.

Is Shiatsu Safe?

Shiatsu given by a qualified therapist is safe for everyone and particularly beneficial for pregnant women. Some therapists also treat small children and the elderly.

The basic guidelines as to, when and where not to give or receive Shiatsu are similar to those of any treatment, which affects the flow of energy, blood and body fluids through the system. These would include times of high fever, especially when accompanied by local infection or inflammation or by infectious disease of any sort; cancer; heart disease; and areas where there may be cuts, bruises, scar tissue, injury or swelling.

However, since Shiatsu techniques vary from the very dynamic to the soft and gentle, it could still be possible to use the supportive quality of some of the holding techniques in most of these situations. In fact, Shiatsu has been used effectively to complement other approaches in the treatment of various forms of cancer, heart disease, HIV + and AIDS.

Use caution and common sense in determining the suitability of a particular Shiatsu treatment. For example, don't try any of the more dynamic movements on old, frail or weak-boned people.

Practising Shiatsu

You can bring relief to a number of everyday disorders at home, using a simplified form of Shiatsu therapy. The secret of good Shiatsu lies in the quality of the communication between the giver arid receiver.

It is best to apply pressure as the receiver breathes out, as this is the time when he or she will be most relaxed. The safest techniques to use are thumb pressure and palm pressure since these are most easily controlled. When giving Shiatsu, always keep both your hands in contact with the receiver - use one hand for applying pressure and place your free hand near the area you are working on.