In Japanese the word “shi” means finger and “atsu” means pressure. Shiatsu, also called acupressure, is an oriental healing method in which specific points on the body surface are pressed with the fingers. An outgrowth of the ancient traditional medicine practised in China, shiatsu was brought to Japan in the sixth century. Presently it is recognized in Japan as a valuable medical aid.

A healthy body is one in which life energy is balanced and flowing freely through invisible channels called meridians, which are connected with the body’s internal organs. When vital energy becomes imbalanced( too weak or too strong) or stagnated in the channels, the body develops troubles; vitality drops and discomfort and sickness may occur.

Energy tends to stagnate in specific points along the channels called acupoints. There are hundreds of acupoints in the human body. When energy is blocked in an acupoint, it becomes sensitive to pressure. In shiatsu the acupoints are pressed to stimulate the movement of stagnated energy as well as to diagnose the presence of disease.

Shiatsu creates a deep feeling of well-being, vitality and relaxation, and is an effective tool in preventing disease. It can eliminate muscular stiffness, reduce tensions, relieve fatigue, improve circulation and strengthen the internal organs. Shiatsu can be a pleasurable experience. It requires no special equipment, oil or the removal of clothes.

Shiatsu is a safe and effective means of easing pain. It helps relieve headaches, back pain, constipation, diabetes, hypertension, stress and other common ailments. It has a unique aspect of acting as both treatment and diagnostic tool.

In Shiatsu it is not about pain, it is about balance.The purpose is to create balance and to make people whole.