Isn't shiatsu a dog?
No. Nor paper-folding. Nor raw fish. And it's not a martial art either.
Does it hurt?
Usually not. It is important for you to let me know if you are in discomfort. It's to be enjoyed not endured. Sometimes there may occur what is known as a "healing crisis" where, after a shiatsu session, energy has begun to move around the body and there will be a period of adjustment. During this time you may feel tired, slightly depressed or sad, there may be tears, there may be slight headaches. This is quite normal and healthy. It is similar to a detox in that stuck energy has been released. If this happens, know that it will pass, drink plenty of water to speed the process, and just allow it to happen.
How many treatments will I need?
This will depend on your condition and what you are looking to change. If you have a severe condition then you will benefit from a series of treatments close together to help your body bring itself into balance. Once this is happening, then treatments can become less frequent. Ideally people use shiatsu for health maintenance, preferring to keep "topped up" than waiting until they get ill. Regular shiatsu will keep on top of stresses, keep the receiver recharged, and equally importantly, feeling "worth it".
Is shiatsu an alternative to western medicine?
Shiatsu is complementary to western medicine. If you have a serious condition I would recommend that you seek medical advice from your GP. Shiatsu can work alongside western medicine and help the healing process by working on you as a person. When your energy is flowing your body will heal itself. Shiatsu is also excellent at addressing those sorts of nuisance conditions that you may not want to bother the doctor with: headaches, period pain, insomnia, stiff limbs, low motivation, diarrhoea/bloating/'constipation etc.. things we endure and tend to say "mustn't grumble" but still can spoil our days.
What about mental and emotional health?
Shiatsu does not distinguish between physical, mental and emotional health. It is all part of the whole picture of the individual. Emotional conditions can appear as physical symptoms, a classic being how stress causes us to have stiff necks. Physical conditoins can affect our moods. Everything is interrelated. At first the idea that pressing a point on someone's hand can relieve a migraine, or standing on someone's feet can help bring about improved sleep, but this knowledge has been around for thousands of years and has been proven to work.
Can I be doing anything to help myself between sessions?
Definitely. Depending on what is happening in your life and what changes you wish to make, there's a lot of work that you can be doing between sessions. We will work out a programme which may include changes to diet, to routine, to thought patterns, and introduce new exercises and hobbies to bring about changes. This can be an ongoing process.
Am I too old to have shiatsu?
Because shiatsu sessions are tailor-made to the individual, I believe that everyone can benefit from shiatsu. So, no you are not too old to try it. If you prefer not to use the futon mattress on the floor I have a special chair you can use, or you can experience it sitting on a normal chair.
Is it for me?
Some people may not enjoy shiatsu. This is perfectly ok, it could be that they are not yet ready for the changes that shiatsu can bring about, it could be that they would work better with a different therapist, or a different therapy. I am happy to refer clients to others if I believe that it will bring about greater healing for them.
But the best way to find out whether shiatsu is for you is to pick up the phone and call me, arrange a meeting and see for yourself.