Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork based on traditional Chinese medicine concepts, such as qi life energy, with dual origins in the older Japanese message modality known as Amna.
Shiatsu is a form of massage therapy in which the practitioner utilizes the hands, thumbs, fingers, palms or other body parts to apply direct pressure on various points or channels in the body. Fingers are the most commonly used, however. Shiatsu means "finger pressure."
It is a form of acupressure that uses assisted stretching, joint manipulation, and mobilization may also be used. Generally, the technique is performed through loose clothing and does not use oils, although the ease of application allows for Shiatsu to be applied in virtually any massage setting, ranging from fully-clothed patients seated in a massage chair to undressed patients lying on a massage table. Shiatsu is sometimes practiced as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other massage treatments.
Massage is a practice that has been used for thousands of years. Shiatsu is one of several massage therapies people seek for relaxation, healing, and relief.
The practice has its basis in a holistic model of the body, although it integrates well with conventional medicine. Historically, Shiatsu views illness as a disharmony in the body's non-physical nature, known as qi. Like most other energy therapies, Shiatsu seeks a balance in the life energy, and therefore the body.
Since qi is believed to travel through the body through meridian channels, the idea is that there are certain places on the human body that corresponds to the qi location, which also serve as acupuncture points.
Shiatsu is believed to be effective in the treatment of a range of disorders, including joint problems such as arthritis, painful muscles, fatigue, acute and chronic aches and pains, sports injuries, muscle tension, poor posture, digestive disorders, asthma, hay fever, constant colds, skin conditions, sciatica, sinusitis, bronchitis, anxiety, depression, and insomnia.
The view of many conventional medical providers is that there is no scientific evidence showing that Shiatsu will prevent or cure any disease, although it is considered to be safe.
A 2019 study determined that combining Shiatsu with conventional treatment for low back pain demonstrated improved symptoms and quality of life following the session, and self-shiatsu has been found to have some positive effects on younger people suffering from chronic pain, as well as for young adults suffering from sports-related concussions.
In order to legally practice Shiatsu in the United States, the practitioner is required to become a licensed massage therapist and possess a certification of specialization in Shiatsu. The U.S. Department of Education classifies Shiatsu as an Asian bodywork therapy rather than a form of massage therapy, as the practice uses a traditional Chinese medicine model of the body rather than a purely physical one.
Recommended Resources
Founded in 1985, the School offers a drop-in Shiatsu massage clinic, which can help with stress, back pain, neck and shoulder tension, digestive issues, menstrual pain, and other problems, which are discussed here, along with its pricing structure. Its chief purpose, however, is to offer a range of courses in shiatsu, from those for a complete beginner to professional diploma and post-graduate study. Its courses are featured here, along with a history of the school and contacts.
https://shiatsu.net/
Offering Shiatsu courses since 1998 and teaching Karate since 2008, Living Earth is headed by Leny Carbone, who has been practicing Shiatsu and Karate since 1992, and acupuncture since 1998. Scheduled classes are published on the site, along with the address, directions, and a map showing the location of the Toronto, Ontario, Canada facility. An overview of the available classes, coaching, and mentoring services are included. Shiatsu, Reiki, and acupuncture treatment are also offered.
https://livingearthschool.com/
Established in 1986, Shiatsu College provides professional-level training programs, including its Shiatsu Practitioner 3-year Level 4 Shiatsu Diploma Course, a government-recognized qualification in the United Kingdom. Graduates of the Diploma course become members of the Professional Practitioners Register of the Shiatsu Society upon graduation. Its courses, college branches, events, and contacts are published on the site. A login for students and faculty is included.
https://www.shiatsucollege.org.uk/
Maintained by Leeann Irwin, a shiatsu practitioner since 1988, and practicing n Annapolis and Silver Spring, Maryland. Licensed by the State Board of Chiropractic and Massage Therapy Examiners, she is a qualified Therapeutic Touch practitioner with the Therapeutic Touch International Association and holds a B.S. in psychology. Her practice is discussed, including what to expect during a session, the benefits of shiatsu, contacts, and appointment policies, as well as an overview of shiatsu.
https://shiatsunow.com/
A professional association for Shiatsu practitioners in the United Kingdom, the Shiatsu Society was formed in 1981. Membership levels and benefits are published on the site, which includes information on how to contact a registered shiatsu practitioner and where to train in shiatsu. Professional members (MrSS, SrSS, FwSS) on its register of practitioners have completed an approved level of training, follow its code of conduct and ethics, and are fully insured. Contacts are included.
https://www.shiatsusociety.org/
Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia
The STAA, established in 1987, is the national body representing shiatsu therapists in Australia. A National Council, made up of volunteer shiatsu therapists, is responsible for the organization's governance, while the Association is responsible for the development of competencies and standards for shiatsu therapists and colleges, and maintains a national register of diploma-qualified shiatsu therapists. Membership information and contacts and shiatsu colleges are featured.
https://www.staa.org.au/
Shiatsu Therapy Association of British Columbia
Headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, the STA is a not-for-profit organization focused on providing educational and professional standards for shiatsu therapy and training, including provincial certification. The organization also supports its members through educational programs, educates and enhances the public's understanding of shiatsu therapy, and provides a forum for sharing knowledge in the field. An overview of the Registered Shiatsu Therapist designation is included.
https://www.shiatsutherapy.ca/
Shiatsu Therapy Association of Ontario
Shiatsu therapy is a non-invasive manual therapy from Japan that stimulates the body's inherent ability to heal itself. The STAO is a non-profit organization representing professional, certified shiatsu therapists in Ontario, across Canada, and internationally. Membership information, objectives, code of ethics, scope and practice, board and committee, and a history of the organization are provided, along with testimonials, a photo gallery, and a therapist directory.
https://shiatsuassociation.com/
