Shiatsu at the Cheltenham Holistic Health Centre

Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork and healing art based on ancient Traditional Chinese Medicine . It is very relaxing and its effect is determined by the receivers current state of mind and by their needs in the moment, both physical and mental. No two Shiatsu sessions are the same. Shiatsu is a touch therapy. The body responds to touch in a deep way which can help to release disorders, improve immunity and reduce stress.

Some conditions recognised as stress-related are: insomnia, anxiety and depression, muscular tension, headaches, digestive disturbances, menstrual dysfunction and low resistance to infection.

Because Shiatsu is a bodywork it can also help with: backache, swollen, painful or stiff joints, sprains and strains, neck and shoulder stiffness, poor circulation, retention of fluid and sinus problems.

Treatment
Using stationary pressure, held stretches or gentle massage on energy channels (meridians), the therapist helps the client to balance their energies, by promoting the movement of energy to depleted areas.

At the first session a medical and personal history will be taken to ensure that treatment is appropriate. On subsequent visits the first 5 to 10 minutes are spent talking about how you are in mind and body. The bodywork will take place on a Japanese mat (futon) on the floor (although it is possible to give Shiatsu in a chair if necessary).

There is no need to remove any clothing so please wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes, preferably made from natural materials such as cotton. Women should wear trousers. the session is about 1 hour.

Frequency
The number of sessions varies with the needs of the client. 4-6 to start.