Shiatsu (literally: press with fingers) is a Japanese form of acupressure or pressure point massage. Meridians (energy pathways) are intended to influence the body through steady pressure on parts of the body. Pressure is given with fingers, hands, elbows, knees and feet. The aim is to restore the energetic balance in the body. Through the self-healing ability of the person, shiatsu is a tool to obtain balance between body and mind.

An imbalance can be expressed in many ways through symptoms like:

• Headache;
• RSI;
• Sleeping disorders;
• Fatigue;
• Digestive complaints;
• Neck pain;
• (lower) back pain
• Joint pain;
• Eating disorders;
• Stress;
• Emotional symptoms.

Shiatsu is not only effective in dealing with complaints, but is also excellent preventive work. It is still better to prevent than to cure. Shiatsu can also be supportive in f.e. a pregnancy. Shiatsu restores energy and encourages the person to give positive attention to him- or herself.

The treatment

Body and mind are gradually brought into a relaxed state, after which a pressure point massage serves to find the meridian points (tsubo), which can help to restore balance. Each person feels differently after the treatment, but often it is noted that there is a slightly dizzy feeling in the head. It is important to drink water or a cup of tea after the treatment.