Zen Shiatsu is a style of Shiatsu that originated in Japan – and Shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’. It incorporates Traditional Chinese Medicine, Five-element Theory, Anatomy, physiology and pathology and Zen Buddhism.
Contact me for more information and to book a session.
I, Guhyasakhi (Bernadette) Carelse originally trained at the Zen School of Shiatsu, from 1996 to 1998. After assisting teaching for a year, I began leading classes as part of the teaching team (until 2014 when the school closed). After some years, I decided to refresh my practice and re-trained the London College of Shiatsu (January 2021 to December 2023).
I am a Registered Member of the Shiatsu Society – click here to see my page on their website. I am also registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC)
Outline of a Session Therapy outline: A Shiatsu session starts with ‘questioning’ and ‘looking’ diagnosis, during which you, the ‘receiver’, may be asked to participate in breathing, stretching and other exercises.
Following this is the ‘touching’ diagnosis – the hands-on treatment – which takes place at floor level on a futon and is done over clothing.
The whole session lasts about an hour and takes place with the receiver lying on the floor or a low massage couch. Here is a link for more information on sessions.
After the treatment, it is recommended that the receiver relax and allow time for the body to rest and realign itself. Some recommendations may be made, including yoga postures, mindfulness/meditation practices and those related to lifestyle, diet, sleep etc.
Shiatsu Theory: The therapist is trained to create and sustain an intuitive and physical connection with the receiver. Using changes in pressure and movement in particular areas, the therapist releases touches or pressed along certain ‘lines’ or ‘channels’, that are known as “meridians”. There are 14 main meridians running throughout the body, along the head, neck, torso, arms and legs.
By adjusting the texture and composition of the meridians, through touch, the overall flow of energy or awareness through the body can be enhanced or harmonised, thereby facilitating the body’s own healing process.
Shiatsu is used by thousands of people all over the world, including charities, health foundations, NHS trusts and hospitals in the UK, supporting a range of health issues and complementing other treatment pathways.
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