Shiatsu in Japanese means finger pressure, it is a “hands on” healing art based on traditional Chinese medicine and modern anatomy and physiology theory.

Shiatsu grew from earlier forms of Oriental massage. Anma in Japan and Tuina in China which use rubbing, stroking, squeezing, tapping, pushing and pulling to influence the muscles and circulatory systems of the body. Shiatsu by contrast uses techniques of finger, hand and elbow pressure applied to the acupuncture meridians and points of the body. Hence, it is also called “acupuncture without needles”.

Oriental philosophy describes the universe in terms of energy. All things are consider to be manifestations of a vital universal force, called “Ki” by the Japanese, “Chi” in China. In Oriental medicine harmony of Ki in the human body is essential to good health.

Shiatsu aims to regulate this energy in the body which flows thru the meridians, nourishing the organs, muscles, glands, nerves and blood. An imbalance of this energy network can lead to fatigue, pain and illness. Shiatsu treatments help relieve stress and pain, and improve muscle and joint function. Shiatsu can strengthen the body and improve overall health and well-being. This deep but gentle approach to preventive health care has many long term benefits.

There are many styles of Shiatsu taught and practiced in Japan and throughout the world. The most widely known are the Masunaga, Namikoshi, Ohashi and Macrobiotic styles. Other forms of finger pressure therapy include Acupressure and Jin Shin Do.