Zen Shiatsu
Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork rooted in the theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The focus of a Shiatsu treatment is to facilitate balance in the flow of Qi, vital energy, throughout the body. The Shiatsu practitioner views all pain, tension, disease and discomfort as an imbalance in the flow of energy, and by working to restore harmony in the body Shiatsu is able to relieve symptoms.
A typical Zen Shiatsu treatment begins with the Hara assessment. Hara refers to the belly, the space between the lower ribs and the hips, and there is an area in the hara that relates to each meridian (energy channel). By touching each area and comparing it to the others, a Shiatsu practitioner may determine which meridians are most out of balance. The most kyo (empty) meridian will form a connection with the most jitsu (full) meridian, and these two channels become the focus for the treatment. The hara changes continuously, and is a reflection of current conditions inside the body. By assessing the hara, the practitioner may tailor each treatment to the client’s needs on that particular day.
Shiatsu is performed on a mat on the floor with the client fully clothed, enabling a wide variety of techniques. Although the literal translation of Shiatsu is “finger pressure”, the amount of pressure used can range from the lightest touch to much deeper contact, depending on the needs of the client. Stretching and movement are blended with pressure from palms, thumbs, elbows and even knees to create a fluid treatment that is both relaxing and rejuvenating.
Many receivers of Shiatsu experience:
• Relief from stress
• Increased flexibility
• Relief from pain and tension
• Increase in mental clarity
• Improved digestion
• Strengthened immune system
• Increased emotional stability