Shiatsu, from “shi” (finger) and “atsu” (pressure) is a type of pressure massage that addresses imbalances of the body and mind. It stems from traditional Chinese medicine and exerts pressure on the energy flowing along the meridians. The therapeutic potential of Shiatsu was discovered in Japan at the beginning of the 20th century by a Japanese practitioner called Tamai Tempaku. He developed the current Shiatsu technique by combining traditional oriental techniques with physiological and anatomic knowledge of western medicine.

Shiatsu is based on the concept of the vital energy known as “k”. This energy travels along canals, also known as meridians, throughout the body. By exerting pressure at certain precise points, called “tsubo”, along these canals, it is possible to relieve blockages in the energy flow and thus stimulate the correct functioning of certain organs, as well as general physical well being. Shiatsu is essentially a means of preventing illness, but can also be used therapeutically for dealing with specific symptoms by concentrating the treatment on relevant parts of the body.

Shiatsu is good for restoring bodily vitality, regulating the hormonal system, blood circulation and lymphatic liquid, detoxification and relieving muscular tension. It also gets rid of stress and insomnia and encourages self-healing.