Shiatsu has its roots in Oriental medicine, taking a holistic view of the whole person (body, mind and spirit) and working with the network of energy that flows throughout the body. This energy is known as ‘Chi’ (usually pronounced “Chee”) in Chinese or ‘Ki’ (“Key”) in Japanese; acupuncture, yoga, qigong, tai chi and many other therapy and exercise systems work with this energy in conjunction with the muscles, tendons, fascia and nerves to promote relaxation, ease, energy and well-being.

Shiatsu sessions are usually hands-on, carried out lying down or sitting comfortably, fully-clothed, often using palms, thumbs and fingertips, with pressure that may be very light or stronger, depending on what is appropriate for the person at that time. Stretches and massage may also be used.