Shiatsu: Holistic Wellbeing for the Modern Lifestyle
Shiatsu, a non-invasive bodywork therapy that originated in Japan, is gaining more and more popularity with Westerners seeking to reduce their stress levels and enhance their wellbeing. And for all the right reasons! Keep reading to find out more about this incredibly transformative practice and its benefits.
It’s no secret that modern lifestyle is taking a massive toll on the health and wellbeing of the individual. From social distancing to navigating ordinary changes of the “new normal,” stress levels and loneliness are increasing every day. Humans are complex social creatures with different layers of being (mental, emotional, physical) that need to be tended to. Modern day living seems to have forgotten this as it glorifies the “doing” and pushes for more productivity.
When was the last time you took a step back to simply be?
This is an invitation to bring back harmony and start approaching wellbeing holistically: mind, body, heart and spirit. The East knew this for thousands of years, but luckily the West is slowly catching up.
What is Shiatsu?
Practised in Asia through different forms for centuries, in 1957 Shiatsu became an officially recognised independent modality by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare. The ripple effect led to an increase in popularity and worldwide expansion.
Shiatsu combines ancient knowledge with modern techniques to enhance the body’s natural ability to balance itself and foster harmony. Often confused with other massage modalities, Shiatsu is a form of therapeutic bodywork based on acupuncture principles that focus on specific pressure points to relieve tension and promote holistic healing.
One of the fundamental principles in Eastern practices is the presence of vital energy flowing through all beings. Traditionally known as Ki (also known as Qi, pronounced “chee”), this vital energy travels through specific channels (meridians) to fuel all functioning. When Ki is abundant, there is balance, harmony and vitality. If the flow is obstructed, different symptoms begin to arise.
The Shiatsu practitioner is trained to recognise these imbalances whilst also considering general health, symptoms and the healing abilities of the individual. Through a combination of kneading, pressing, soothing, tapping, and stretching techniques, they are able to assess and help in restoring the natural flow of energy. Traditionally practised at floor level, on a futon or comfortable mattress, Shiatsu sessions are incredibly practical as they don’t incorporate oil and clients are not expected to remove their clothing. Each experience is unique and tailored to individual needs, but the benefits can begin from the very first encounter.
What are the benefits of Shiatsu?
Shiatsu can foster holistic wellbeing for the modern lifestyle by:
1. Helping to release muscle tension and pain from the body
The gentle bodywork techniques and stretches help release tension from the muscles. Whether it is stiffness from the work day or soreness from physical activities, Shiatsu can soften and soothe different areas of the body.
2. Reducing stress levels
Shiatsu sessions induce calmness and relaxation. Each experience is tailored to the needs of the individual and can help calm the mind, and promote a sense of inner peace and groundedness.
3. Balanced energy flow
By applying gentle pressure on the vital points throughout the meridians, Shiatsu can enhance the flow of vital energy (Ki), restoring balance and harmony within the body.
Conclusion
Shiatsu is a transformational practice that can help nurture the body, mind and spirit. Whether it is done regularly or sporadically, Shiatsu is a wonderful complementary bodywork therapy supporting holistic wellbeing for the modern lifestyle.