Shiatsu
Prisca Natterer Dipl. S.T. Certified Shiatsu Therapist

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing art, and the literal translation of the word itself means “finger pressure”. It utilizes the philosophy of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), using meridians, which are pathways of energy (Ki) running throughout the body. The balance of this energetic flow is considered to be essential for health and well being.

During a treatment, the therapist will initially carry out an assessment to diagnose imbalances in the physical body, as well as in the energy system of the client. Following this the therapist will tailor the treatment to meet the specific needs of the client, and may therefore work on some areas of the body more than others.

TCM philosophy sees all things as being interrelated and the body is viewed as a whole rather than as separate entities. For this reason, no matter what condition a client presents with, a shiatsu therapist will always aim to treat the whole body, thus affecting the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects of the individual simultaneously.

During a treatment the therapist uses a combination of thumbs, palms, elbows and knees to apply comfortable, sustained pressure to the whole body, combined with gentle stretching. The client wears loose, comfortable clothing and no oils are used. Treatment takes place either on a padded floor mat or massage table.

The therapist works along meridian pathways and may use the same points that are used by acupuncturists. Each energy pathway or “meridian” corresponds to an internal organ. When a client is experiencing pain, discomfort or fatigue for example, this is an indication that the energy lines are distorted. Depending upon the level of the distortion, organ function can be affected and as a result the development of symptoms occurs.

From the perspective of western medicine, shiatsu works in a number of ways: it helps to regulate the autonomic nervous system; improve the circulation of blood and lymph, helping to flush out toxins and waste products from the body; it relieves muscle stiffness and tension; improves posture and mobility; boosts and strengthens the immune system; improves digestion and respiration; increases vitality and enhances well being, while at the same time relaxing the body and mind.

From the perspective of eastern medical theory, the aim of the treatment is to establish the smooth flow of Ki throughout the body. This involves reducing areas where there may be an excess of Ki, replenishing areas where there is a deficiency, and removing blockages or areas where Ki is stagnated, in order to restore the client to a state of balance and harmony. When the flow of Ki is normalized, overall body functioning improves, symptoms lessen and the client experiences renewed vitality.

One of the biggest hurdles facing the majority of the population today, is dealing with the effects of stress in our daily lives. Juggling long work hours with the additional demands of an active social life and family obligations, can sometimes become overwhelming. Almost everyone who leads a busy and productive life in today’s hectic world is at risk for increased stress. This stress has been cited as a major contributing factor in a multitude of diseases such as high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and cancer.

It is important to remember also that the body is unable to differentiate between what is ‘good’ stress, for example participating in a physically active sport, versus negative or ‘bad’ stress, such as too many hours spent at work, and it responds in the same way to both.

In addition to this, there are also many external stressors on the body from the environment, pollution, diminishing water quality and increasingly less nutritious foods that are laden with additives and preservatives. All of these things put an enormous strain on the body as it struggles to maintain equilibrium. The result is often an individual that is chronically fatigued with a weakened immune system.

Stress can manifest itself in the body in a number of ways, insomnia, migraine headaches, digestive disorders and low energy are just a few examples. Shiatsu is an excellent therapy to assist the individual in reducing stress in their life.
At the psychological level negative emotions are also known to disrupt the harmonious balance of Ki energy. Stress and trauma can accumulate in the tissues of the body and can manifest as feelings such as sadness, anger, depression, nervousness and anxiety. The gentle comfortable pressure of shiatsu produces a deep stimulus in the body. This serves to activate the parasympathetic nervous system and results in a profound state of relaxation. It is during this time that the body is able to let go of unwanted emotions and release stored tension and stress. As the body’s own powerful self healing mechanism is stimulated, the client experiences a feeling of overall well being.

In general after a shiatsu treatment client’s report feeling lighter, more calm and experience less tension and pain. Treatments are individual however and everyone will respond differently to shiatsu. There are some common reactions that you may experience, these can include increased energy, fatigue, decreased pain, stiff/sore muscles and mild headaches. In general the symptoms are mild and self limiting, usually resolving within 24-48 hours, and are considered to be a sign that the body is responding to the treatment.

People often ask if they should have shiatsu when they don’t have any specific problems or concerns and the answer to this is yes. Even a person who is healthy and fit can still benefit from shiatsu as it is an effective preventative therapy. It promotes healing of the whole person, the maintenance of good health and the prevention of illness. It is safe and effective therapy that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and all walks of life.

Shiatsu Therapy is Effective for:

• Anxiety and Depression
• Menstrual Disorders / PMS
• Low Back Pain / Sciatica
• Headache / Migraine
• Digestive Disorders
• Neck & Shoulder Tension / Whiplash
• Motor Vehicle Accidents / Sports Injuries
• Stress / Fatigue / Insomnia

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How to Choose your Therapist
CST® (Certified Shiatsu Therapist) is the trademarked designation of the practicing members of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario (S.T.A.O.). A CST® has successfully completed a 2200 hour (equivalent to three academic years) diploma program at a government accredited private vocational school, or the S.T.A.O. equivalent.

Core curriculum requirements include Western anatomy, physiology, pathology and public health as well as Chinese medical theory. In addition to this the student must complete a minimum of 650 hours of supervised practice in a public clinic setting. This is the highest standard of training for shiatsu therapists in the world, outside of Japan.

A CST® must also have passed comprehensive written and practical entrance exams set by the association, agree in writing to abide by the association’s code of ethics and carry mandatory professional liability insurance. The CST designation is your assurance of the most highly trained shiatsu therapist in North America.

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