Frequently Asked Questions
LEARN HOW IT WORKS!
Is Shiatsu Safe
Recent research carried out by the University of Leeds on behalf of the European Shiatsu Federation establishes that Shiatsu treatment is safe.
I don’t use any drugs, machines, needles, oils, or electricity and you can keep your clothes on! I have received thorough training for 3 years and follow the code of conduct of our professional body, The Shiatsu Society (UK). I continually update my skills with further training, supervision, and tutorials, and make sure that I regularly receive Shiatsu treatments myself!
I am always careful to follow my client’s energy and provide appropriate treatment. Depending on the receiver’s preference and energetic state, the massage can be very gentle and calming, or strong with deep pressure.
What happens during a treatment?
At your first appointment, you will be asked detailed questions about your health. I use the holistic method, unifying physical and emotional factors to get a full picture of your energetic state.
I will then do a “hara diagnosis,” feeling the abdomen area to gauge the quality of each energy meridian. Then the treatment begins which involves pressure applied using thumbs, fingers, elbows, and knees as well as rocking rotations and stretches.
How does it feel?
During the massage, as tensions and emotions are released, you may feel sleepy or even tearful. It is common to drift off into a dream-like state as I work on your energy flow. Although the massage techniques may involve stretching and rocking, they are all gentle movements and you should not feel uncomfortable. Working on some of the pressure points can be briefly painful, but you always feel better for it! Afterwards, you should feel less tired and have more energy. Many people say that they feel a warm sense of well-being and aches and pains are soothed.
Can I eat or drink straight before or after a treatment?
Ideally, eat no less than an hour before or after a treatment and avoid caffeine and alcohol. Any other drink is fine just before or after the treatment.
How likely is shiatsu to relax me and reduce my symptoms?
In findings from the European Shiatsu Federation research study, carried out by Prof. Andrew Long at the University of Leeds, 89% of Shiatsu receivers felt calmer and more relaxed. Also, receivers rated their symptoms as significantly reduced throughout the 6-month study.
Could you give me a treatment at my offices?
Happily, providing they are not too far from Cranleigh. I have a shiatsu massage chair for seated massages, as well as a transportable futon for floor-based treatment. I can provide 15 or 30-minute treatments, or the usual hour-long treatment.
Is Shiatsu regulated?
The Shiatsu Society is currently working with the Prince of Wales’ Foundation for Integrated Health on voluntary self-regulation. This programme of work is supported by the Department of Health.
Do I have to lie down?
No. I have a massage chair, so I can provide seated treatments if this is preferable, or if you are unable to lie on the floor for health reasons.
How long is each treatment?
Sessions last an hour, including time for discussion. The initial session will generally be 15 minutes longer as I will go through detailed questions about your health.
What should I wear?
Shiatsu is performed fully clothed. Loose tops and trousers (eg: tracksuit bottoms) are ideal. Skirts, jeans, jackets, or any tight clothing are generally unsuitable.
How many treatments will I need?
This varies greatly from person to person and depends on your physical health. Often some good effects are felt after just one treatment, but a series of sessions may be needed to make a significant change in the condition.
Typically a client may choose to visit weekly until a consistent improvement is reached, progressing to fortnightly then monthly intervals. After treatment is over, you may still want to come regularly to maintain good health.
What happens if I am taking other medication?
Shiatsu does not interfere with any medication – rather, it can complement any conventional medical treatment that you may be receiving. Shiatsu will assist the healing process by its overall strengthening effect, improving circulation of energy, blood, and lymph, and reducing stress.
What is the Shiatsu Society?
Established in 1981, the Shiatsu Society was set up by a small group of Shiatsu practitioners and teachers. Since then the society has grown to form a network linking practitioners and teachers, students, and interested individuals. It is a Professional Association for Shiatsu Practitioners with 1,700 members, of whom a third are, like me, on the Register of Professional Practitioners of the Shiatsu Society (MRSS). For more information visit www.shiatsu.org