Shiatsu was developed in Japan as an essence of traditional Chinese medicine but with Western influences. It is a physical therapy that supports the body’s natural ability to strengthen and heal itself.
Shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese but in reality, the treatment is much stronger with the therapist using touch and comfortable pressure and manipulative techniques. As with many therapies, there are several different styles of Shiatsu with some concentrating on acupressure points (as in acupuncture) while others adopting a more general body work approach. Zen Shiatsu is one of the most common approaches in Britain.
