Shiatsu: workshop

Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork therapy, based on ancient medical principles, that combines a wide range of techniques to promote health and well-being. Deeply-relaxing and energising, it aims to support and stimulate the body’s natural, self-healing powers. In a Shiatsu session the thumbs, fingers and palms are used to apply pressure and movement, easing tension and stress, improving circulation, and encouraging the free flow of the ‘life-force’ – known as ‘Ki’ – throughout the body. The use of specific pressure points also helps with this process. Treatments are usually carried out on soft floor mats wearing comfortable clothing (no oils are used). In Shiatsu, skilled touch is the basis of both diagnosis and treatment.