Tel: 01309 358255
Mob: 07796 716 133
E-mail: shiatsuireneschenk@gmail.com

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a type of body work which allows us to give and receive care and natural healing through non- intrusive touch.

It is a traditional Japanese natural healing therapy developed at the beginning of the 20th century and its roots lie in Traditional Oriental Medicine.  It is a synthesis of traditional oriental massage and modern western techniques of physical manipulation and is a complete healing system through touch.  It was officially recognised as a therapy by the Japanese government in 1964.

How does it work?

Traditional Oriental Medicine believes that life energy or Ki (Japanese), Qi (Chinese) flows throughout the body of all living beings. The flow of this life energy can be accessed through energy pathways called meridians which connect with our vital organs. The functions of the meridians affect not only the physical body, but also the emotional, mental and spiritual body thus giving the receiver of Shiatsu a wide range of benefits.

When imbalance or stagnation occur in the flow of Ki/Energy, signs of discomfort and unease may arise and more pronounced symptoms of illness and disease may appear in longstanding disturbances of energy flow.

The Shiatsu practitioner applies pressure, holding and stretching techniques to improve the flow of energy through bringing it to areas in need and dispersing it from where it is congested, stimulating the body's natural healing power to restore balance and health. This benefits the blood and lymph flow and can improve flexibility and posture.

What happens during a session?

The treatment takes place on a low treatment couch or on a padded futon on the floor, depending on the client's preference and condition.  In cases where lying down is not an option the treatment can be done in a seated or kneeling position.

Shiatsu is applied through light comfortable clothing and there is no need to undress.  Literally translated Shiatsu means "Finger Pressure."  During a session pressure is applied through hands, thumbs, fingers and forearms and occasionally through elbows, knees and feet. Stretching, holding and rotating techniques are applied in various positions such as prone (front), side and supine (back).

The way pressure is applied has a direct effect on the parasympathetic nervous system and a deep sense of peace and relaxation settles in quickly and deepens throughout the treatment.

How can Shiatsu help you?

Most people can benefit from Shiatsu.  You do not need to have a particular medical condition in order to have Shiatsu because of its general strengthening and preventative aspects.

Shiatsu is ideal in the relief of stress and tension, alleviating illness and its symptoms, improving energy levels and easing aches and pains and much more.

As it is deeply relaxing it can help people to improve their sleep patterns.  It can also be very helpful and effective for chronic conditions, assisting the elderly and in palliative care.

Please note that Shiatsu is safe to have alongside most medical treatments prescribed by your GP or other medical practitioner.  However, it is always recommended to check with your GP first.

Your Healthworks Practitioner: Irene Schenk MRSS

I am a fully qualified Shiatsu practitioner and I have practised in Forres, Nairn and the wider Moray area since 1995.

I have studied in Scotland, England and France and graduated from the Aberdeen School of Shiatsu in 1995.  I qualified with the Shiatsu Society of the UK as a registered member in 1996.

I practise a style of Shiatsu called Zen Shiatsu which was developed in Japan in the middle of the last century and incorporates western psychology along with an extended meridian system and aspects of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  Zen Shiatsu is based on supportive and empathetic touch and that the theory of the meridian (energy pathways) functions lies beyond the physical.  As in all Traditional Oriental Medicine it is based on the belief that all pain and disease are reflected and clearly show in one's energy.

Professional Organisation

Shiatsu Society (UK), www.shiatsusociety.org

For further information and appointments please contact Irene as above.

Financial assistance for the cost of treatment may be available from Healthworks" Access to Health Fund." For a short application form contact the charity's secretary at office@healthworks.uk.net