Shiatsu is a contemporary bodywork therapy which works on all
the different energetic levels of our body: physical, emotional,
mental and spiritual. It evolves from thousands of years of
Oriental medical history and specifically from the traditional
Japanese medical approach. It shares the same roots as Acupuncture,
Moxibustion and Chinese herbalism. In the middle of this century
Shiatsu became recognised by the Japanese Government as a therapy
in its own right. Since then, like Acupuncture, it has spread
to the west where it is more and more successfully practised
and recognised.
Shiatsu literally means finger pressure, although the practitioner
will use thumbs, palms, elbows, forearms and sometimes knees
and feet during a treatment. Shiatsu acts upon the subtle anatomy
of the body wherein energy known as ‘Ki’ ( sometimes
also called Chi) flows to the organs and all the body areas
through the pathways known as ‘meridians’. These meridians
are electromagnetic channels containing specific points of high
electrical charge known as ‘tsubos’ (or acupressure
points). A combination of pressure point, meridian and body-area
stimulation using stretching, palpation and other corrective
techniques may all be used to initiate the movement of Ki in
the meridians. Physically this stimulates the blood circulation
and the flow of lymphatic fluid, it works on both divisions
of the automatic nervous system. Shiatsu helps to release toxins
, deep seated tension from the muscles and stimulates the hormonal
system.
On a subtler level Shiatsu works on stimulating the body’s
vital energy flow (known as Ki). This brings about deep relaxation
and allows the receiver to get in touch with his/her own self
healing abilities and usually leaves a feeling of calmness and
well-being in the receiver.
Particular
Applications
Because an imbalance in Ki in the body often precedes the overt
symptoms of disease, all aspects of Oriental medicine have a
preventative role. However, their suitability to treat specific
disease is of paramount importance. Common syndromes which may
be amenable to treatment by Shiatsu include: headaches and migraines,
respiratory illness, insomnia, anxiety and depression, tension,
fatigue and weakness, digestive disorders and bowel trouble,
menstrual problems and other urogenital conditions, circulatory
problems, rheumatic and arthritic complaints, back trouble,
sciatica and conditions following sprains and injuries. Treatment
of all those conditions will be given according to Oriental
diagnoses, though it is always important that modern western
diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well.
Shiatsu is complementary to orthodox medicine and other natural
therapies such as Homoeopathy, Flower Essences, Counselling,
Alexander Technique etc. Most people benefit from Shiatsu, from
small children to the elderly.
It’s even safe for pregnant women.
Frequency of treatment varies but it’s generally recommended
to follow a
6-10 week course of weekly sessions for acute and chronic problems.
For general relaxation, winding down and prevention one to two
treatments a month will be sufficient. The practitioner may
give advice on diet, exercise and lifestyle if necessary.
Particular
Approach
I have a strong interest in working with the whole person through
Shiatsu body work, incorporating the wisdom of Traditional Chinese
Medicine, rather than just dealing with the symptoms. The client
and I will find a way together towards self empowerment and
to realise what they can do themselves to feel better. I think
a loving and healing touch is very much needed in the world
today and I am a strong believer in the preventative aspect
of traditional therapies.
Comments
of some of my clients:
60 year old lady with arthritis: "I wish I had known of
Shiatsu 20 years ago, I can do movements again I was not able
to do for years" (after 4 treatments).
35 year old woman: "This is the most relaxing treatment
I ever had."
50 year old man with back problems: "My back improved a
lot" (6 treatments)
70 year old man with sciatica: "after 2 treatments pains
were gone."
37 year old woman: "The most important is the peace of
mind the treatments give me." The same lady suffered from
headaches which disappeared after 6 treatments.
30 year old woman: "was sick regularly for 1 year, stopped
vomiting after 2 treatments."
Professional
Organisation
The Shiatsu Society
Barber House,
Storeys Bar Road,
Fengate,
Peterborough PE1 5YS
Tel: 01733 758341
Further
Reading
"Shiatsu Theory and Practice"
"Shiatsu: Japanese Massage for Health and Fitness"
-
"Shiatsu , The Complete Guide" - by Chris Jarmey
"Zen Shiatsu" - by Shizuto Masunaga
HealthWorks
Practitioner - Irene Schenk MRSS
I have worked
with Shiatsu for the past 14 years and trained in 3 different
styles of Shiatsu, currently working mainly with the Zen-Shiatsu
style. I studied in Inverness and Aberdeen, as well as in France
and Germany. I am a fully registered and qualified practitioner
with the Shiatsu Society, UK.
For Further
Information or to Make an Appointment
please contact: Irene Schenk, 01309 611244
Headaches
and migraines