MOD150 – Shiatsu

Definition

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of bodywork that involves applying manual pressure to specific points on the body to stimulate energy flow, release tension, and promote physical and emotional well-being.

Explanation

Shiatsu practitioners use their fingers, palms, elbows, and knees to apply pressure to acupressure points and meridians, similar to acupuncture but without needles. The therapy aims to balance the body’s energy (Qi) and address imbalances in the body’s systems to support health and vitality.

Evidence to Efficacy

Scientific research suggests that Shiatsu may offer benefits for various health conditions and overall wellbeing. While more studies are needed, existing evidence indicates promising results:

A large-scale study by Professor Andrew Long at the University of Leeds found that Shiatsu was associated with improvements in symptom severity, health-related behaviours, and general wellbeing. The study reported that 6 months after treatment, 77-80% of participants had made positive lifestyle changes attributed to Shiatsu.

Research has shown particular promise for Shiatsu in addressing musculoskeletal pain. A systematic review published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that Shiatsu and acupressure were effective for treating low back pain, with studies demonstrating significant reductions in pain intensity.

Shiatsu may also help with stress reduction and relaxation. A small observational study of cancer patients receiving Shiatsu in a day hospital setting found improvements in relaxation, overall wellbeing, and sleep quality.

For mental health, a controlled study on schizophrenia patients reported that Shiatsu, as part of an integrated care approach, helped reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

While more rigorous research is needed, these studies suggest Shiatsu’s potential to support health and wellbeing across various domains. The holistic nature of Shiatsu, addressing physical, emotional and energetic aspects, may contribute to its wide-ranging effects. As research continues, Shiatsu shows promise as a complementary therapy to support overall health and specific conditions.

 The Neuroscience

Shiatsu harnesses the body’s innate healing abilities through strategic touch and pressure. Here’s how Shiatsu benefits the brain and body on a neurophysiological level:

Nervous System Regulation: Shiatsu stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, often referred to as the ‘rest and digest’ system. This activation helps to counterbalance the stress response, reducing cortisol levels and promoting a state of relaxation and well-being.

Neurotransmitter Release: The pressure and touch applied during Shiatsu trigger the release of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine. These ‘feel-good’ chemicals contribute to improved mood, reduced anxiety, and an overall sense of calm.

Pain Modulation: Shiatsu activates the body’s natural pain-relief mechanisms. It stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers, and activates the gate control theory of pain, where non-painful input closes the ‘gates’ to painful input.

Interoception Enhancement: The focused touch in Shiatsu enhances activation in the insula, a brain region crucial for interoception – the sense of the body’s internal state. This can lead to improved body awareness and a greater sense of overall well-being.

Proprioceptive Stimulation: The pressure and movement involved in Shiatsu stimulate proprioceptors, sensory receptors that provide information about body position and movement. This stimulation can enhance body awareness and coordination.

Fascia Communication: Shiatsu techniques engage the fascia, the connective tissue that surrounds muscles and organs. This fascial stimulation may facilitate communication between different body parts via mechanotransduction, potentially influencing overall body function.

Vagus Nerve Stimulation: Certain Shiatsu techniques, particularly those focusing on the neck and abdomen, may stimulate the vagus nerve. This stimulation can have far-reaching effects on various bodily functions, including digestion, heart rate, and immune response.

Oxytocin Release: The nurturing touch involved in Shiatsu can trigger the release of oxytocin, often called the ‘bonding hormone’. This can promote feelings of trust and connection and may have additional benefits for stress reduction and emotional well-being.

Cerebral Blood Flow: Research suggests that acupressure, a technique closely related to Shiatsu, can increase cerebral blood flow. This enhanced circulation may support cognitive function and overall brain health.

Autonomic Balance: Shiatsu may help balance the autonomic nervous system, promoting harmony between the sympathetic (‘fight or flight’) and parasympathetic (‘rest and digest’) systems. This balance is crucial for overall health and resilience.

Sensory Integration: The varied touch sensations in Shiatsu provide rich sensory input, potentially enhancing sensory integration and processing in the brain.

By engaging in Shiatsu therapy, you can tap into these neurophysiological processes leading to improvements in stress management, pain relief, body awareness, and overall well-being. The holistic nature of Shiatsu, addressing both physical and energetic aspects of health, provides a comprehensive approach to supporting the intricate connection between mind and body.

Governing Body

The Shiatsu Society (UK) is the main professional body for Shiatsu practitioners in the UK. It acts as the professional association for Shiatsu practitioners in the UK. It maintains a register of qualified practitioners. It sets and oversees professional standards and a code of ethics, and provides continuing professional development opportunities. It also promotes Shiatsu to the public and healthcare professionals

The Shiatsu Society (UK) also accredits training schools that meet their standards

The Shiatsu Society maintains two registers:

• The Register of Professional Practitioners (MRSS)
• The Register of Student Practitioners (MRSS(T))

What Good Looks Like

In the context of shiatsu, an exceptional experience should encompass several key elements:

• You should feel a sense of safety and trust with your practitioner from the outset. The therapist ought to create a calm, nurturing environment where you feel comfortable and at ease.
• The session should be tailored to your unique needs. Your practitioner should take time to assess your energy balance through gentle touch and observation, adapting their approach accordingly.
• You should experience a variety of techniques, including finger and palm pressure, stretches, and gentle manipulations. The pressure should feel firm but comfortable, never painful.
• The practitioner’s touch should feel focused and intentional. You should sense that they are fully present and attuned to your body’s responses throughout the session.
• You ought to feel a sense of energy movement or flow within your body. This might manifest as warmth, tingling, or a subtle pulsing sensation along the meridian lines.
• The session should have a rhythmic quality, with periods of pressure and release that help you sink into a deeply relaxed state.
• You should feel that the practitioner is addressing your whole body, not just focusing on areas of obvious tension or discomfort.
• Throughout the treatment, you ought to feel increasingly relaxed and balanced. Many people experience a pleasant heaviness in their limbs or a floating sensation.
• By the end of the session, you should feel a noticeable shift in your physical and emotional state. You might experience increased energy, reduced pain, or a sense of mental clarity.

Remember, a truly effective shiatsu session should leave you feeling both deeply relaxed and energised, with a renewed sense of connection between your body, mind, and spirit.

 What to Ask a Practitioner

Here are key questions to help you choose an exceptional shiatsu practitioner, along with desired answers:

How do you tailor your shiatsu approach to individual clients’ needs?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who emphasises personalisation, mentioning how they assess each client’s unique energy patterns, physical condition, and emotional state. They should discuss adapting techniques based on what they observe during the initial assessment and throughout the session.

Can you describe your process for identifying and addressing energy imbalances?

Desired answer: An exceptional practitioner should explain their method for diagnosing energy blockages or deficiencies, possibly mentioning techniques like hara (abdominal) diagnosis or meridian palpation. They might discuss how they use this information to guide their treatment approach.

How do you integrate the concept of Ki (life energy) into your shiatsu practice?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who can articulate a clear understanding of Ki and how it flows through the body’s meridians. They should explain how they work to balance and harmonise this energy during a session.

Can you explain your approach to creating a nurturing and supportive environment during a shiatsu session?

Desired answer: The practitioner should describe specific strategies for fostering a calm, safe atmosphere that allows clients to relax deeply and be receptive to the treatment.

How do you address specific health concerns or chronic conditions through shiatsu?

Desired answer: Look for a practitioner who can explain how shiatsu can be beneficial for various health issues, while also acknowledging its limitations and the importance of working in conjunction with other healthcare professionals when necessary.

Key items that MUST be included in a shiatsu practitioner’s approach:

• Emphasis on the holistic nature of shiatsu, addressing physical, emotional, and energetic aspects
• Use of various techniques beyond just finger pressure, such as stretching, rocking, and joint rotations
• Focus on working with the body’s energy system and meridians
• Attention to the client’s comfort and relaxation throughout the session
• Commitment to ongoing assessment and adjustment of techniques during the treatment

Remember, an exceptional shiatsu practitioner should make you feel heard, respected, and comfortable throughout the entire process, while demonstrating a deep understanding of both the theoretical foundations and practical applications of shiatsu.

Related Therapies

Acupuncture (MOD007): A traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to balance energy flow (Qi) and promote healing. Acupuncture can complement Reiki by addressing energetic blockages.

Acupressure (MOD003): A therapeutic tool with thousands of plastic spikes that stimulate acupressure points to relieve pain and promote relaxation.

Massage Therapy (MOD097): This hands-on therapy involves manipulating the body’s soft tissues to relieve tension, reduce pain, and promote relaxation. It can enhance the effects of Reiki by addressing physical discomfort and improving circulation.

Reflexology (MOD141): A practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) (MOD167): An ancient medical system that includes various forms of herbal medicine, acupuncture, massage, exercise, and dietary therapy.

Aromatherapy (MOD015): The use of essential oils to promote physical and emotional well-being, which can complement the effects of crystal healing.

Reiki (MOD142): A Japanese energy healing technique that involves channelling universal life force energy through gentle or no touch. Reiki can be combined with sound healing to enhance relaxation and energy flow.

Craniosacral Therapy (MOD090): A gentle hands-on technique that releases tensions deep in the body to relieve pain and dysfunction.

Qigong (MOD102): A holistic system of coordinated body posture and movement, breathing, and meditation used for health, spirituality, and martial arts training.

Yoga (MOD182): A physical and spiritual practice that combines postures, breath control, and meditation. Yoga can complement Reiki by promoting physical flexibility and mental clarity, enhancing overall well-being.