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How is shiatsu
different from massage?
Shiatsu uses a technique of applying pressure
to the body, rather than the stroking
or percussive techniques of conventional
massage. There are many different styles.
The zen style emphasizes a strong energetic
connection with the patient, and moment-to-moment
awareness.
Many therapists
(myself included) also use stretching
and breath techniques. The patient can
be fully clothed or disrobed to their
level of comfort. No oils or powders are
used.
Shiatsu is ultimately based on the principles
of traditional Eastern medicine, and is
itself a form of holistic medicine. It
combines bodywork with energy work.
Can I have shiatsu just for relaxation?
Certainly. Shiatsu is excellent for general
relaxation and regular “tune-ups”.
Treatments have a balancing effect, relieving
stress and energizing as needed. Many of
my clients have weekly treatments for overall
balance and wellness.
I've heard that shiatsu is painful. Is this
true?
Shiatsu is no more “painful”
than conventional massage or any other bodywork.
Consider the sensation of massaging your
tired, sore shoulder muscle. There will
be some discomfort, but you experience this
as “good
pain”
or even pleasurable – it feels comforting,
and you know it's helping to relieve tension
and promote healing of the tissue (you also
know exactly how far to go!). This kind
of sensation is quite common during treatments.
In other cases, patients have tension and
pain held deep within their bodies. Often,
this tension and pain is the result of emotional
or spiritual blocks – in some cases,
built up over years of imbalance.
Please be aware that, as your professional
therapist, I will always
work within
your range of comfort.
What are healing reactions?
Normally,
patients have a sense of lightness, relaxation
and well-being after shiatsu treatments.
In some cases, healing reactions may occur,
usually within 24 to 48 hours.
Healing reactions such as fatigue or heightened
emotions are the result of long-standing
imbalances and toxins being released. Such
reactions are typically mild and short-lived,
and are a positive sign of healing.
We will discuss possible healing reactions
as part of your shiatsu therapy session.
Are you a Registered Massage Therapist?
What kind of training do you have?
Are you qualified?
I am not a Registered
Massage Therapist. My training is in shiatsu
and traditional Eastern medicine.
I have
over 1100 hours of training, encompassing
shiatsu techniques, traditional Chinese
medicine and meridian theory (similar
to an acupuncturist's training), Western
anatomy and physiology, and ethics.
I am fully licensed and I am also trained
in CPR.
Is Shiatsu
covered by my workplace health insurance?
Shiatsu is covered by some extended health
care plans in the workplace. Coverage is
becoming more common as the benefits of
shiatsu become appreciated. Please check
with your provider.
I am pleased to issue receipts for your
treatments, whether for insurance claims
or simply for your personal records.
How often
should I have treatments?
If you are having general relaxation/wellness
treatments, you may have them as frequently
as once a week.
If we are working on improving your overall
health, or if you have a specific complaint,
such as chronic pain, arthritis or insomnia,
for example, we may work together more intensively
for several weeks.
We will discuss your personal wellness plan
at your first session.
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