What is Shiatsu Therapy?

Originating in Japan, with roots in ancient Chinese healing, shiatsu therapy is a holistic form of bodywork.  The practitioners work through clothing providing pressure and stretching for the client to reduce tension, improve circulation and treat a variety of conditions.  Practitioners can use a massage table, mat or chair for treatments.   Shiatsu therapists use palms, fingers and elbows, even knees and feet, to treat the body with comfortable pressure, communicating with the client to ensure that their needs are met during the treatment.  Pressure should be comfortable and not painful!   Unlike massage therapy, no oils or scents are used.  These are not necessary since sustained, holding pressure is used, as opposed to a rubbing pressure, and ensures that people with hypersensitivities are not irritated with scents.

How Shiatsu can help relieve stress:

Stress manifests in the body as any number of ailments which Shiatsu can effectively treat:   Ø      Neck & shoulder pain Ø      Carpal tunnel syndrome Ø      Back pain Ø      Headaches and migraines Ø      Repetitive strain injuries Ø      Muscle tension Ø      Arthritis Ø      Digestive problems Ø      Insomnia Ø      Asthma Ø      Depression Ø      Chronic fatigue Ø      Sciatica Ø      Fibromyalgia Shiatsu can help relieve stress at its root by stimulating the body’s rest response!

What reactions can I expect?

Shiatsu therapists work with the knowledge and understanding that each and every body is unique. Every treatment is designed based on the individual and the problems that they present with that day. Since every person is different, people will react in different ways to treatment.  Below are the most common treatment reactions: Ø      Increase or decrease in energy Ø      Fatigue Ø      Headache Ø      Lightheadedness Ø      Emotional response/release Ø      Change in menstruation Ø      No reaction Ø      Increased body awareness If you ever have any concerns about the treatment that you received or about the reactions that you are experiencing, please call to discuss these immediately.

You’ve made the first step and decided to look into shiatsu therapy!

Most therapists will agree that healing is quicker and more affective when the client themselves becomes involved in the healing process. This can be done in a number of ways including assessing and improving: Ø      Diet Ø      Exercise routine Ø      Relaxation and breathing methods Ø      Mental/spiritual activites   Talk to your shiatsu therapist about these and other ways of improving and maintaining your health.

Shiatsu FAQs

Q: How do I know my shiatsu therapist is well qualified?   A: When choosing your shiatsu therapist, make sure to look for the CST designation. This stands for Certified Shiatsu Therapist and indicates that your therapist has received education in both western sciences and eastern medical theory and has a high level of practical knowledge in shiatsu therapy. The CST designation is received after passing examinations with the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario (STAO).   Q: What do I need for my first treatment?   A: See the page entitled "Your First Treatment!" for details.   Q: How is shiatsu different from massage therapy (Swedish massage)?   A: Well, there are a number of differences between shiatsu and Swedish massage. One of the most obvious differences is that shiatsu is done with the client fully clothed, making shiatsu accessible in the work environment and other more public locations. Shiatsu uses stretching techniques and a more deep, penetrating pressure, whereas Swedish massage uses more a rubbing technique and tends to be more peripheral. Just because shiatsu penetrates does not mean that it is painful! (see next question for more information).   Q: I've heard that shiatsu is painful, is this true?   A: Shiatsu does not need to be painful to be effective. This is a common misconception. We try to differentiate between pressure in areas that are sensitive, which is common, and pressure that is actually causing pain, which is harmful. During a treatment, some areas of the body will be more sensitive than others, which is perfectly normal. Shiatsu, however, should always be comfortable and not cause the client pain.   Q: Is shiatsu covered under my insurance plan?   A: Shiatsu, unlike Swedish massage, is not regulated. This means that shiatsu is not as commonly covered under insurance plans as Swedish massage is. This is an area that many shiatsu therapists in Ontario are working to remedy. You will need to look into your own insurance plan to determine if shiatsu, and other unregulated alternative therapies, are covered under your particular plan.