Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a form of therapeutic massage, literally translated as finger (shi) pressure (atsu). It is based on the Eastern principle that energy of life flows through longitudinal meridians in the body. Pressure is applied to certain points (tsubo) on the body's meridians, invisible energy channels which connect different parts of our body. When our body is in a state of illness, this indicates that there is disharmony and obstructions within the system. By stimulating the tsubo, shiatsu aims to get the vital life energy or Qi moving freely again, thus inwardly restoring balance, and outwardly relieving pain, aches and tension. Shiatsu is also applied with other parts of the hand, as well as with the arms, elbows, knees and feet on the patient's body, according to what work is needed. As such, there is no set routine or order for a shiatsu treatment, and it varies from patient to patient.