Each session lasts approximately one hour. The first session may be slightly longer as it will also involve a consultation where you will be asked about your medical history, lifestyle, emotions and responses to foods, I will also observe your appearance, posture and movements and listen to your voice this will help to develop a complete picture of your health according to the principles of oriental medicine.
The Shiatsu treatment usually takes place on a padded mat or futon at floor level, although it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down. You will stay fully clothed. Following the treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality and you may feel invigorated but relaxed
The Shiatsu treatment will start with a Hara diagnosis this is a technique where I gently touch, or palpates the 'energy centres' in your abdomen that relate to your inner organs and their energetic, physical and psychological functions according to Oriental medicine.
I will apply pressure to your body in combination with the palm of my hands, fingers, elbows, feet and knees. When appropriate I will also help you to stretch your body into a variety of positions, which can help to stretch the meridian lines. This improves the energy flows throughout the body via its energetic pathways, which are known as meridian lines. Although we don’t have an equivalent of these in Western medicine, there is increasing scientific evidence supporting the existence of these energetic pathways.
Following the treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality and you may feel invigorated but relaxed.
Please wear, or bring to change into, loose warm comfortable clothing, preferably cotton, e.g. sweatshirt, tracksuit trousers and clean cotton socks. You should have not just eaten a huge meal, nor should you be extremely hungry.