Shiatsu - the gentle art of massage.

A hard week in the office, the kids have just driven you mad, in and out of planes all week, carrying the shopping up two flights of stairs. The Weekend and holidays are long forgotten.

Zen Shiatsu is a massage technique based on the philosophy and principles of Chinese medicine although the method itself originates from Japan. Shiatsu which can be translated as “finger pressure” and was developed in Japan in the 20th century from a combination of the Chinese Massage Tui na and western Massage techniques.

Zen Shiatsu concentrates on harmonising body’s energy based on the acupuncture points. Shiatsu is generally carried out on the floor on a Japanese Futon. However Shiatsu is flexible and it’s possible to have the therapist visit you in the office where they’ll use a special massage chair. Shiatsu is applied to the whole body and the client should wear warm comfortable clothing, as the body temperature can drop due to the deep relaxation achieved during the session.

The session usually lasts about an hour. It makes sense to take a series of treatments (once a week or every second week) as the effect is cumulative and therefore lasts longer.

As a Shiatsu therapist we apply stretching, holding and the application of pressure using his thumbs, fingers, palms or occasionally elbows or knees to various parts of the body. The treatment attempts to improve the flow of energy (or Qi), circulation, flexibility and general well being of the recipient.

Shiatsu is a holistic therapy in it's own right and can help with a number of ailments orit can also be applied simply as a form of relaxation and "wellness". So take the time and to have someone help you take the weight off if only for an hour or so.