Question 1

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

Accepted Answer

A session usually begins with a discussion about your health.  Normally this would include any specific problems you have, and a discussion of your work, family, eating and exercise patterns.  On your first visit this may take up a substantial part of the time.  On subsequent visits the discussion is usually much shorter and focused on any changes that have taken place. 
This is followed by the Shiatsu treatment which usually lasts about 45 minutes.  At the end there will be a little time to let the effects begin to settle in and to talk about the treatment.

Question 2

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

Accepted Answer

A session usually begins with a discussion about your health. Normally this would include any specific problems you have, and a discussion of your work, family, eating and exercise patterns. On your first visit this may take up a substantial part of the time. On subsequent visits the discussion is usually much shorter and focused on any changes that have taken place. 
This is followed by the Shiatsu treatment which usually lasts about 45 minutes. At the end there will be a little time to let the effects begin to settle in and to talk about the treatment.

Question 3

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

Accepted Answer

A session usually begins with a discussion about your health. Normally this would include any specific problems you have, and a discussion of your work, family, eating and exercise patterns. On your first visit this may take up a substantial part of the time. On subsequent visits the discussion is usually much shorter and focused on any changes that have taken place. 
This is followed by the Shiatsu treatment which usually lasts about 45 minutes. At the end there will be a little time to let the effects begin to settle in and to talk about the treatment.

Question 4

What does it feel like?

Accepted Answer

The touch, or pressure, used is usually pleasurable and comforting.  Sometimes it is necessary to work more deeply and this can be uncomfortable, but this is usually only a small part of the overall treatment.

Question 5

What does it feel like?

Accepted Answer

The touch, or pressure used is usually pleasurable and comforting. Sometimes it is necessary to work more deeply and this can be uncomfortable, but this is usually only a small part of the overall treatment.

Question 6

What does it feel like?

Accepted Answer

The touch, or pressure used is usually pleasurable and comforting. Sometimes it is necessary to work more deeply and this can be uncomfortable, but this is usually only a small part of the overall treatment.

Question 7

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a safe and gentle therapy which can help with most conditions. Sometimes it works directly, but other times it offers support and space for people to begin to come to terms with problems they face.

Question 8

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a safe and gentle therapy which can help with most conditions. Sometimes it works directly, but other times it offers support and space for people to begin to come to terms with problems they face.

Question 9

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a safe and gentle therapy which can help with most conditions. Sometimes it works directly, but other times it offers support and space for people to begin to come to terms with problems they face.

Question 10

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu can offer support and can often help to moderate or manage symptoms even if the problem will never really go away.  An increased sense of well being due to Shiatsu may boost tolerance levels in the receiver, helping them to deal with the symptoms more easily.

Question 11

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu can offer support and can often help to moderate or manage symptoms even if the problem will never really go away. An increased sense of well being due to Shiatsu may boost tolerance levels in the receiver, helping them to deal with the symptoms more easily.

Question 12

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu can offer support and can often help to moderate or manage symptoms even if the problem will never really go away. An increased sense of well being due to Shiatsu may boost tolerance levels in the receiver, helping them to deal with the symptoms more easily.

Question 13

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and enjoyment. Regular treatments may help to keep the body in harmony and ward off ill-health.

Question 14

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and enjoyment. Regular treatments may help to keep the body in harmony and ward off ill-health.

Question 15

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

People can receive Shiatsu purely for relaxation and enjoyment. Regular treatments may help to keep the body in harmony and ward off ill-health.

Question 16

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy.

Question 17

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy.

Question 18

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is safe and supportive during and after pregnancy.

Question 19

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a very safe therapy, but it should be avoided if you:
have an infectious disease
are suffering from any acute, feverish illness
have internal bleeding or blood clots
have had a major operation during the last 3 months
You should inform your practitioner of any condition that has been diagnosed by a doctor.

Question 20

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a very safe therapy, but it should be avoided if you:
- have an infectious disease
- are suffering from any acute, feverish illness
- have internal bleeding or blood clots
- have had a major operation during the last 3 months
You should inform your practitioner of any condition that has been diagnosed by a doctor.

Question 21

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is a very safe therapy, but it should be avoided if you:
- have an infectious disease
- are suffering from any acute, feverish illness
- have internal bleeding or blood clots
- have had a major operation during the last 3 months
You should inform your practitioner of any condition that has been diagnosed by a doctor.

Question 22

How many sessions will be needed?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu helps the body’s energy to rebalance itself. If the “dis-ease” is long-standing, then the body’s energy patterns will have become accustomed to being out of balance. Usually, the longer a condition has been present, the longer it will take to heal. However, this is not always the case, and sometimes change is very rapid. Everyone is different!

Question 23

How many sessions will be needed?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu helps the body’s energy to rebalance itself. If the “dis-ease” is long-standing, then the body’s energy patterns will have become accustomed to being out of balance. Usually, the longer a condition has been present, the longer it will take to heal. However, this is not always the case, and sometimes change is very rapid. Everyone is different!

Question 24

How many sessions will be needed?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu helps the body’s energy to rebalance itself.  If the “dis-ease” is long-standing, then the body’s energy patterns will have become accustomed to being out of balance.  Usually, the longer a condition has been present, the longer it will take to heal.  However, this is not always the case, and sometimes change is very rapid.  Everyone is different!

Question 25

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

You remain fully clothed. You should wear loose fitting clothing, preferably with long sleeves. It is good to have a sweat-shirt or similar, for warmth, and not to rely on a tee-shirt (body-temperature often drops a little during the treatment). Avoid wearing a skirt or jeans, and wear, or bring a clean pair of socks. Leave some time between eating and having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 26

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

You remain fully clothed. You should wear loose fitting clothing, preferably with long sleeves. It is good to have a sweat-shirt or similar, for warmth, and not to rely on a tee-shirt (body-temperature often drops a little during the treatment). Avoid wearing a skirt or jeans, and wear, or bring a clean pair of socks. Leave some time between eating and having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 27

What should I wear?

Accepted Answer

You remain fully clothed.  You should wear loose fitting clothing, preferably with long sleeves. It is good to have a sweat-shirt or similar, for warmth, and not to rely on a tee-shirt as body-temperature often drops a little during the treatment.  Avoid wearing a skirt or jeans, and wear, or bring a clean pair of socks.  Leave some time between eating and having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 28

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is possible to receive Shiatsu in a chair, in a wheelchair or even in a hospital bed.

Question 29

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is possible to receive Shiatsu in a chair, in a wheelchair or even in a hospital bed.

Question 30

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

Accepted Answer

Yes. It is possible to receive Shiatsu in a chair, in a wheelchair or even in a hospital bed.

Question 31

How will I feel after a treatment?

Accepted Answer

Many people find it leaves them feeling deeply relaxed, with a feeling of well-being and calmness. It can also leave you feeling intensely alive and energised. Sometimes emotional feelings surface, either during or after a treatment. This is perfectly normal and you should try to give yourself the time and space to let them wash-through you rather than suppressing them.

Question 32

How will I feel after a treatment?

Accepted Answer

Many people find it leaves them feeling deeply relaxed, with a sense of well-being and calmness.  It can also leave you feeling intensely alive and energised.  Sometimes emotional feelings surface, either during or after a treatment.  This is perfectly normal and you should try to give yourself the time and space to let them wash-through you rather than suppressing them.

Question 33

How will I feel after a treatment?

Accepted Answer

Many people find it leaves them feeling deeply relaxed, with a feeling of well-being and calmness. It can also leave you feeling intensely alive and energised. Sometimes emotional feelings surface, either during or after a treatment. This is perfectly normal and you should try to give yourself the time and space to let them wash-through you rather than suppressing them.

Question 34

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. Your practitioner will ask whether you are currently taking medication and take details of any medical conditions you are suffering from.
Shiatsu will not interfere with your medication. It will often complement conventional medical treatment by giving an overall strengthening effect and improving the circulation of blood and lymph and reducing stress. If you are receiving medical treatment for a particular condition, then it may be advisable to inform or consult your doctor prior to having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 35

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can. Your practitioner will ask whether you are currently taking medication and take details of any medical conditions you are suffering from.
Shiatsu will not interfere with your medication. It will often complement conventional medical treatment by giving an overall strengthening effect and improving the circulation of blood and lymph and reducing stress. If you are receiving medical treatment for a particular condition, then it may be advisable to inform or consult your doctor prior to having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 36

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Accepted Answer

Yes you can.  Your practitioner will ask whether you are currently taking medication and take details of any medical conditions you are suffering from.
Shiatsu will not interfere with your medication.  It will often complement conventional medical treatment by giving an overall strengthening effect and improving the circulation of blood and lymph and reducing stress.  If you are receiving medical treatment for a particular condition, then it may be advisable to inform or consult your doctor prior to having a Shiatsu treatment.

Question 37

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is complementary to mainstream Western medicine, not an alternative to it. Treatment will be given according to Oriental diagnosis, though it is always important that the modern Western diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well. Both Shiatsu and Western medicine have important roles to play and sometimes you may be advise to go and see your GP.

Question 38

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is complementary to mainstream Western medicine, not an alternative to it. Treatment will be given according to Oriental diagnosis, though it is always important that the modern Western diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well. Both Shiatsu and Western medicine have important roles to play and sometimes you may be advise to go and see your GP.

Question 39

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu is complementary to mainstream Western medicine, not an alternative to it. Treatment will be given according to Oriental diagnosis, though it is always important that the modern Western diagnosis is confirmed and considered as well.  Both Shiatsu and Western medicine have important roles to play and sometimes you may be advise to go and see your GP.

Question 40

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although it is generally best to leave at least a few days between different treatments to let the effects settle-in. If you have any concerns about mixing treatments, please discuss them with your practitioner.

Question 41

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although it is generally best to leave at least a few days between different treatments to let the effects settle-in. If you have any concerns about mixing treatments, please discuss them with your practitioner.

Question 42

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, although it is generally best to leave at least a few days between different treatments to let the effects settle-in.  If you have any concerns about mixing treatments, please discuss them with your practitioner.

Question 43

What is Qi?

Accepted Answer

Qi (sometimes spelled 'Chi' or 'Ki') is our life-force. It flows throughout the body like a system of rivers and canals and provides the energy for our life processes. It gives our organs their transformative abilities, holds everything in place and supplies our vitality. It is also the organising force which enables our innumerable component parts to act harmoniously. 
Things may happen to upset the smooth flow of Qi, causing blockages in some areas and weaknesses in others. These blockages or weaknesses in turn may lead to physical symptoms, to psychological or emotional disturbances, or simply to a feeling that things are just not quite right.
Working with the Qi (to release blockages, stimulate or balance it) can help with mental and emotional problems as well as physical conditions.

Question 44

What is Qi?

Accepted Answer

Qi (sometimes spelled 'Chi' or 'Ki') is our life-force.  It flows throughout the body like a system of rivers and canals and provides the energy for our life processes.  It gives our organs their transformative abilities, holds everything in place and supplies our vitality.  It is also the organising force which enables our innumerable component parts to act harmoniously. 
Things may happen to upset the smooth flow of Qi, causing blockages in some areas and weaknesses in others.  These blockages or weaknesses in turn may lead to physical symptoms, to psychological or emotional disturbances, or simply to a feeling that things are just not quite right.
Working with the Qi (to release blockages, stimulate or balance it) can help with mental and emotional problems as well as physical conditions.

Question 45

What is Qi?

Accepted Answer

Qi (sometimes spelled 'Chi' or 'Ki') is our life-force. It flows throughout the body like a system of rivers and canals and provides the energy for our life processes. It gives our organs their transformative abilities, holds everything in place and supplies our vitality. It is also the organising force which enables our innumerable component parts to act harmoniously. 
Things may happen to upset the smooth flow of Qi, causing blockages in some areas and weaknesses in others. These blockages or weaknesses in turn may lead to physical symptoms, to psychological or emotional disturbances, or simply to a feeling that things are just not quite right.
Working with the Qi (to release blockages, stimulate or balance it) can help with mental and emotional problems as well as physical conditions.

Question 46

What are Meridians?

Accepted Answer

Qi moves throughout the body but in certain defined pathways it flows in a more concentrated manner. These pathways are known as meridians. The meridians form a continuous circuit of channels that allow the flow of Qi all over the body.

Question 47

What are Meridians?

Accepted Answer

Qi moves throughout the body but in certain defined pathways it flows in a more concentrated manner. These pathways are known as meridians. The meridians form a continuous circuit of channels that allow the flow of Qi all over the body.

Question 48

What are Meridians?

Accepted Answer

Qi moves throughout the body but in certain defined pathways it flows in a more concentrated manner.  These pathways are known as meridians.  The meridians form a continuous circuit of channels that allow the flow of Qi all over the body.

Question 49

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu diagnosis is holistic rather than analytical, taking into account a wide range of clues based on what the client says, observation of behaviour patterns and physical appearance, and touch. Diagnosis plays a central role in Shiatsu, but it is framed in terms of oriental medicine (Ki, elements, meridians, etc.) rather than Western physiology and pathology. A Shiatsu practitioner may be able to tell you that you have, say, a Water energy imbalance or an Earth energy imbalance, but not that you have diabetes or high cholesterol. Many practitioners begin a session with gentle palpation (i.e. diagnostic touch) of the abdominal region. This region, called the Hara in Japanese, is especially important in Shiatsu diagnosis because it is central, soft and relatively unprotected, so that subtle imbalances often reveal themselves more easily here.

Question 50

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu diagnosis is holistic rather than analytical, taking into account a wide range of clues based on what the client says, observation of behaviour patterns and physical appearance, and touch. Diagnosis plays a central role in Shiatsu, but it is framed in terms of oriental medicine (Ki, elements, meridians, etc.) rather than Western physiology and pathology. A Shiatsu practitioner may be able to tell you that you have, say, a Water energy imbalance or an Earth energy imbalance, but not that you have diabetes or high cholesterol. Many practitioners begin a session with gentle palpation (i.e. diagnostic touch) of the abdominal region. This region, called the Hara in Japanese, is especially important in Shiatsu diagnosis because it is central, soft and relatively unprotected, so that subtle imbalances often reveal themselves more easily here.

Question 51

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu diagnosis is holistic rather than analytical, taking into account a wide range of clues based on what the client says, observation of behaviour patterns and physical appearance, and touch.  Diagnosis plays a central role in Shiatsu, but it is framed in terms of oriental medicine (Ki, elements, meridians, etc.) rather than Western physiology and pathology.
A Shiatsu practitioner may be able to tell you that you have, say, a Water energy imbalance or an Earth energy imbalance, but not that you have diabetes or high cholesterol.
Many practitioners begin a session with gentle palpation (i.e. diagnostic touch) of the abdominal region.  This region, called the Hara in Japanese, is especially important in Shiatsu diagnosis because it is central, soft and relatively unprotected, so that subtle imbalances often reveal themselves more easily here.

Question 52

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

Accepted Answer

Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances through pressure on the meridians, probably in conjunction with other techniques such as rocking, stretches and joint rotations. As with diagnosis, Shiatsu treatment is holistic, with the practitioner working on the whole body rather than focusing on the area where symptoms are most obvious. Shiatsu works best if the client is as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so you should close your eyes, relax your muscles (the practitioner will do all the work if movement is required) and refrain from speaking unless it's really necessary. But let the practitioner know the moment you feel any discomfort or your body will start to tense up and the benefit of the session will be lost.

Question 53

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

Accepted Answer

Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances through pressure on the meridians, probably in conjunction with other techniques such as rocking, stretches and joint rotations. As with diagnosis, Shiatsu treatment is holistic, with the practitioner working on the whole body rather than focusing on the area where symptoms are most obvious. Shiatsu works best if the client is as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so you should close your eyes, relax your muscles (the practitioner will do all the work if movement is required) and refrain from speaking unless it's really necessary. But let the practitioner know the moment you feel any discomfort or your body will start to tense up and the benefit of the session will be lost.

Question 54

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

Accepted Answer

Based on the initial diagnosis and on physical and visual feedback gained during the session, the practitioner will seek to even out the perceived energy imbalances through pressure on the meridians, probably in conjunction with other techniques such as rocking, stretches and joint rotations.  As with diagnosis, Shiatsu treatment is holistic, with the practitioner working on the whole body rather than focusing on the area where symptoms are most obvious.  Shiatsu works best if the client is as relaxed and comfortable as possible, so you should close your eyes, relax your muscles (the practitioner will do all the work if movement is required) and refrain from speaking unless it's really necessary. For example, it is best to let the practitioner know the moment you feel any discomfort or your body will start to tense up and the benefit of the session will be lost.

Question 55

Is Shiatsu massage?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu has some features in common with European-style massage and other forms of bodywork in that the use of physical pressure and stretches serves to reduce muscular tension and loosen stiff joints.  However, unlike massage, the receiver remains clothed during the treatment and the principal aim of Shiatsu is not to work on localised muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client.  This is the big difference between Shiatsu and other physical therapies.  A Shiatsu practitioner working on a shoulder joint, for example, will not just be focusing on the joint but on the pattern of energy throughout the client's body.

Question 56

Is Shiatsu massage?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu has some features in common with European-style massage and other forms of bodywork in that the use of physical pressure and stretches serves to reduce muscular tension and loosen stiff joints. However, unlike massage, the receiver remains clothed during the treatment and the principal aim of Shiatsu is not to work on localised muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client. This is the big difference between Shiatsu and other physical therapies. A Shiatsu practitioner working on a shoulder joint, for example, will not just be focusing on the joint but on the pattern of energy throughout the client's body.

Question 57

Is Shiatsu massage?

Accepted Answer

Shiatsu has some features in common with European-style massage and other forms of bodywork in that the use of physical pressure and stretches serves to reduce muscular tension and loosen stiff joints. However, unlike massage, the receiver remains clothed during the treatment and the principal aim of Shiatsu is not to work on localised muscles and joints, but on the overall energy system of the client. This is the big difference between Shiatsu and other physical therapies. A Shiatsu practitioner working on a shoulder joint, for example, will not just be focusing on the joint but on the pattern of energy throughout the client's body.

Question 58

Is Shiatsu healing?

Accepted Answer

It is more accurate to say that Shiatsu aids healing than that Shiatsu heals. The aim is to assist the body's natural healing process by encouraging the client's energy to move into a more balanced state. A practitioner's touch can enable each of us to contact our own abilities for self-healing. Shiatsu is different from the ‘laying on of hands’, spiritual healing or Reiki, where healing energy is believed to be ‘channelled’ through the practitioner to the client.

Question 59

Is Shiatsu healing?

Accepted Answer

It is more accurate to say that Shiatsu aids healing than that Shiatsu heals.  The aim is to assist the body's natural healing process by encouraging the client's energy to move into a more balanced state.  A practitioner's touch can enable each of us to contact our own abilities for self-healing.  Shiatsu is different from the ‘laying on of hands’, spiritual healing or Reiki, where healing energy is believed to be ‘channelled’ through the practitioner to the client.

Question 60

Is Shiatsu healing?

Accepted Answer

It is more accurate to say that Shiatsu aids healing than that Shiatsu heals. The aim is to assist the body's natural healing process by encouraging the client's energy to move into a more balanced state. A practitioner's touch can enable each of us to contact our own abilities for self-healing. Shiatsu is different from the ‘laying on of hands’, spiritual healing or Reiki, where healing energy is believed to be ‘channelled’ through the practitioner to the client.

Question 61

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Accepted Answer

By the nature of Shiatsu, it is almost impossible for it to have harmful effects. The aim is to shift energy around the body in such a way as to relieve areas of tension and enliven weak areas. This is effectively a collaboration between the practitioner and the client's body, which will instinctively want to do the same thing, but may need a little help to get started. Occasionally a new patient may have healing reactions after the first few sessions. These occur when toxins have been released during the treatment, and as these work out through the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness, stomach upsets or diarrhoea, desire to urinate frequently, or lethargy. Such symptoms are transitory and soon pass, usually in 12 hours at most. Drinking plenty of spring water and resting will help, as well as asking the practitioner for advice and reassurance.
Emotional releases may take longer to work through, and indeed, over the course of a number of treatments, deep-seated emotional patterns or memories involving past emotions may be uncovered. These can have profound effects on the patient's life. In such cases, extra contact between sessions may be necessary to talk through the reactions to treatment.

Question 62

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Accepted Answer

By the nature of Shiatsu, it is almost impossible for it to have harmful effects.  The aim is to shift energy around the body in such a way as to relieve areas of tension and enliven weak areas.  This is effectively a collaboration between the practitioner and the client's body, which will instinctively want to do the same thing, but may need a little help to get started. Occasionally a new patient may have healing reactions after the first few sessions.  These occur when toxins have been released during the treatment, and as these work out through the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness, stomach upsets or diarrhoea, desire to urinate frequently, or lethargy.  Such symptoms are transitory and soon pass, usually in 12 hours at most.  Drinking plenty of spring water and resting will help, as well as asking the practitioner for advice and reassurance.
Emotional releases may take longer to work through, and indeed, over the course of a number of treatments, deep-seated emotional patterns or memories involving past emotions may be uncovered.  These can have profound effects on the patient's life.  In such cases, extra contact between sessions may be necessary to talk through the reactions to treatment.

Question 63

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Accepted Answer

By the nature of Shiatsu, it is almost impossible for it to have harmful effects. The aim is to shift energy around the body in such a way as to relieve areas of tension and enliven weak areas. This is effectively a collaboration between the practitioner and the client's body, which will instinctively want to do the same thing, but may need a little help to get started. Occasionally a new patient may have healing reactions after the first few sessions. These occur when toxins have been released during the treatment, and as these work out through the body there may be symptoms such as headache, stiffness, stomach upsets or diarrhoea, desire to urinate frequently, or lethargy. Such symptoms are transitory and soon pass, usually in 12 hours at most. Drinking plenty of spring water and resting will help, as well as asking the practitioner for advice and reassurance.
Emotional releases may take longer to work through, and indeed, over the course of a number of treatments, deep-seated emotional patterns or memories involving past emotions may be uncovered. These can have profound effects on the patient's life. In such cases, extra contact between sessions may be necessary to talk through the reactions to treatment.

Question 64

Will I have to change my lifestyle?

Accepted Answer

First and foremost, your Shiatsu practitioner will respect your chosen lifestyle, however 'un-oriental' it is. Indeed, Shiatsu is particularly beneficial for people in the high-stress occupations associated with the mainstream of modern life. Your Shiatsu practitioner may discuss ways in which you could 'fine-tune' your life in order to get more out of it - for example a change in diet or more exercise.

Frequently asked questions

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

What happens in a Shiatsu session?

What does it feel like?

What does it feel like?

What does it feel like?

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

What conditions are Shiatsu good for?

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Can Shiatsu help with ongoing or incurable conditions?

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

Do I have to be ill to receive Shiatsu?

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

I’m pregnant – can I still receive Shiatsu?

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

Are there any times when Shiatsu should be avoided?

How many sessions will be needed?

How many sessions will be needed?

How many sessions will be needed?

What should I wear?

What should I wear?

What should I wear?

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

I cannot lie on the floor. Can I still have Shiatsu?

How will I feel after a treatment?

How will I feel after a treatment?

How will I feel after a treatment?

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Can I receive Shiatsu whilst on medication?

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Is Shiatsu complementary or alternative?

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

Can I have Shiatsu if I am having other complementary or alternative therapy?

What is Qi?

What is Qi?

What is Qi?

What are Meridians?

What are Meridians?

What are Meridians?

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

How does Shiatsu diagnosis work?

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

How does Shiatsu treatment work?

Is Shiatsu massage?

Is Shiatsu massage?

Is Shiatsu massage?

Is Shiatsu healing?

Is Shiatsu healing?

Is Shiatsu healing?

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Can Shiatsu do any harm?

Will I have to change my lifestyle?

Will I have to change my lifestyle?

Will I have to change my lifestyle?

How can I integrate Shiatsu with self-development?

How can I integrate Shiatsu with self-development?

How can I integrate Shiatsu with self-development?