Richard Blair M.R.S.S.(T) - Shiatsu Therapist

Shiatsu is...

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing art. It can help in a wide range of conditions - from specific injuries to more general symptoms of poor health. Shiatsu is a deeply relaxing experience and regular Shiatsu sessions help to prevent the build up of stress in our daily lives.

The philosophy underlying Shiatsu is that vital energy (known as Ki in Japanese) flows throughout the body in a series of channels called meridians. For many different reasons Ki can stop flowing freely and this then produces a symptom.

Shiatsu practitioners use a variety of techniques to improve the client’s energy flow. These may include gentle holding, pressing with palms, thumbs, fingers, elbows, knees and feet on the meridians and, when appropriate, more dynamic rotations and stretches.

As the quality of Ki changes, the symptoms associated with a lack of flow will gradually improve. Shiatsu is a therapy that works on the individual as a complete being - not just the physical body, but also on an emotional and/or mental level.

Shiatsu usually takes place on a padded mat or futon at floor level, although it is possible to receive Shiatsu sitting on a chair if you are unable to lie down. The client stays fully clothed. Following a treatment, there can be a feeling of increased vitality combined with yet relaxation.


16 Feb 2011

Dear Members,

We are writing to advise you of the current rules with regards to what you can advertise about Shiatsu. Several years ago the ASA (Advertising Standards Agency) agreed in writing to us that we can state that Shiatsu is good for back pain, neck pain, sports injuries and stress. The ASA have recently withdrawn this and are now saying we can only advertise Shiatsu as being good for 'wellbeing'. No ailments can be mentioned at all in any literature, including websites which the ASA can regulate from 1st March.   In order for us to be able to make claims the ASA are asking for clinical trial research which of course is not suitable for CAM therapies. The ASA have applied this rule to all CAM therapies, not just Shiatsu.

Tim Brown, our Political Director, is currently compiling guidelines for members which we will circulate shortly. We have also sent the findings from the ESF research to the ASA to see if they will accept this as evidence that Shiatsu is good for ailments such as back pain. We are waiting for a reply from them.

Once we have any further information we will let you know immediately.

Kind regards
Samantha
Shiatsu Society Administrator