Shiatsu is a form of energy bodywork for the purpose of releasing energy: tonifying deficient (Kyo) energy and sedating excessive (Jitsu) energy helping the body return to harmony through balancing the Ki or Qi. This is executed by applying pressure with hands, fingers, elbows, and knees along the meridian pathways in a rhythmic way. A reading of the abdomen or Hara, is used to diagnose the energy imbalances. The concept of the microcosmos reflects  the macrocosmos is again reflected through the Hara, which is the location of the “sea of Qi/Ki.” The practitioners movements all originate from his/her Hara , imbibing the session with energy, relaxation and concentration. The concept of the Hara is the foundation of most all Japanese arts.

Shiatsu has roots in Chinese medicine and folk healing. Chinese medicine came to Japan from China in the 6th century. Anma therapy and Ampuku were two forms of healing that were very popular in Japan. It was a popular healing modality until Western medicine was introduced to Japan in the late 1800’s. Amna therapy was demoted to a relaxation massage and was a profession for the blind. Shiatsu is a recently acquired name for this hand pressure massage. Helen Keller, a proponent for the blind and deaf, encouraged Shiatsu’s return to its original status as a healing modality, returning the profession to the blind. The first official school of Shiatsu was founded by Toru Namikoshi in 1940, who treated Marilyn Monroe.

There are many schools of Shiatsu. It is to this day evolving especially here in the west. Basically there are two schools: one based on TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) and Five Element theory and the other called Zen Shiatsu which has a more psychological base. All styles use finger pressure from light to firm. Zen Shiatsu which was developed by Shizuto Masunaga, a Japanese Psychologist who was deeply interested in blending psychology, orthodox shiatsu, with the western understanding of psychology and healing. He also developed a form of diagnosis of the Hara from the back instead of the abdomen.

Traditionally Shiatsu is executed on a cotton floor mat, although it can be applied on a massage table. The client is treated holistically, through questioning, observing the client, palpation of the Hara, maybe even  reading the pulse, the client is diagnosed. Using the knowledge of TCM, 5 Element theory, yin/yang and the practitioners own intuition, the path of the session is followed. Shiatsu can be firmly or lightly applied, not as vigorous as Thai Massage. There can be stretching or not. Usually a session is given for one hour.

Fevers, inflammation, osteoporosis, sprains, strains, and skin conditions need to be considered or contraindicated. The first trimester of pregnancy should be avoided and then after the first, shiatsu should be executed lightly. Again, like all bodywork, medical conditions should not forego the assessment of a qualified medical professional.

I studied with Larry Wolf, a star student from the Ohashi Institute. I blend my knowledge of TCM, Qi and Qigong along with my continued studies of energy, acupoints and meridians.