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   WHAT IS SHIATSU?

Shiatsu – meaning ‘finger pressure’ - is a Japanese bodywork system combining the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine with elements of Western anatomy and physiology.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
​A cornerstone of Shiatsu theory is that our vital energy (Ki or Qi) flows throughout the body in a series of channels called meridians. The most primitive of those - Governing Vessel and Conception Vessel - form a part of Central channel - deepest energy pathway running along our spine. Over time the flow of that energy becomes constricted through physical injury, emotional trauma or long-term stress, resulting in pain and dis-ease.
 

MY APPROACH

In my practice I use a combination of traditional Shiatsu techniques and Shin Tai methods developed by Saul Goodman (www.shintaiinternational.com) to increase back mobility. I include various techniques like fascia (soft tissue) release, cranio-sacral holds, structural corrections and pressure to allow you to let go of stress patterns and tension. 

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I can never fully explain what Shiatsu Shin Tai treatment feels like; each experience is different and unique to you, you simply have to try it out.

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Click HERE for patient testimonials.

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FIRST THINGS FIRST

The initial consultation is 1 hour and 15 minutes long  to allow time for discussion about your medical history, lifestyle, general health and any specific issues you want to focus on. It helps me with diagnosis and planning of your treatment. Subsequent sessions will last 1 hour, with short chat about changes that have taken place since last visit.

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WHAT HAPPENS DURING TREATMENT?

During the session you will lie on a thickly padded, comfortable mat called futon on top of a body cushion. I will start with checking spine and hips alignment, mobilising ribs and vertebrae and follow on with energy work to recover motion and ease in the body. Every treatment will be different because I work with what I feel. 

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HOW WILL I FEEL AFTER THE SESSION?

It is hard to predict how your body will respond to treatment. Some people feel immediate relief of physical tension, experience feeling of clarity, sense of direction and profound relaxation. However, as deeply held stress is released from the tissues, some may come face-to-face with pain or trauma experienced in the past. It may be disturbing but your body needs to let go of these deeply buried experiences in order to heal. To read more about the process of healing please click on the following link: https://www.shintaiinternational.com/blog2/2017/7/11/healing-process-shiatsu

 

IS THIS A ONE-OFF OR SHOULD I COME REGULARLY?

For any chronic conditions, I recommend a package of six treatments, one per week then moving to fortnightly, and monthly. For maintenance of spinal health and de-stressing of central nervous system I advise one session per month. 

 

HOW TO PREPARE?

Please wear or change into loose comfortable, cotton clothes and socks. Shiatsu is less effective on a full stomach so please avoid a heavy meal before the session.

 

WHAT TO CONSIDER BEFORE BOOKING A TREATMENT?

Shiatsu Shin Tai is a very safe therapy, but it should be avoided if you:

  • have an infectious disease

  • are suffering from any acute, feverish illness

  • have internal bleeding or blood clots

  • have had a major surgery during the last 6 weeks

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