Frequently Asked Questions - Shiatsu & Deep Thought Therapy

FAQ - (Frequently Asked Questions) about Shiatsu

Q: Can Shiatsu help me?

 A: Shiatsu helps almost everybody and most conditions by balancing "Ki" or your "vital energy", by increasing your energy levels and promoting healthy metabolism.
The key benefits of Shiatsu are delivered via the autonomic nervous system which coordinates and monitors all involuntary functions - such as breathing, hormonal secretions, enzymes production, body temperature, and so on. This autonomic nervous system sub-divides into the ‘sympathetic' branch which mobilizes our energies for survival or "fight-or-flight" responses, and the ‘parasympathetic' branch which promotes and conserves our energies for growth and development.

The single most important benefit of Shiatsu is that, through pressure, it can override the "fight-or flight" mode which over time leads to stress and illness, and "switch on" the conservation mode which activates relaxation and the body's natural healing capacity.

Shiatsu is beneficial for most conditions but is recognized to be most effective for:

• arthritis, neck/shoulder/ low back pain, joint stiffness, muscular tension,
• sciatica/neuropathies, poor circulation, anxiety/emotional distress,
• migraines/headaches, sinusitis, intestinal disorders, menstrual/reproductive
• problems, respiratory conditions, and stress disorders, not to mention that

Shiatsu brings instinctive joy and human touch back into your life.

Q: What is Ki (Chi) Energy?

A: Our living bodies are composed of matter and energy.  This energy of life is called "Ki" in Japanese. "Ki" circulates throughout the body invisible channels called meridians.  They were discovered by the Chinese doctors and philosophers from meditation and the experience of treating the human body in all its states of distress.  
Through meridians this vital energy communicates with and flows through us nourishing every nerve, every blood vessel, all the muscles, bones, glands and organs, every system of the entire body.

Oriental therapeutic philosophy says that if the Ki flow through the twelve meridians is smooth and unimpeded, and if each meridian receives a balanced amount of Ki, then the functioning of the body is harmonious.

But if the Ki flow stagnates, or is impeded or blocked, then the harmony turns to disharmony and disharmony to disease.  Ki stagnation can be caused by: traumatic experiences, difficult environment, improper use or dis-use of body mobility, low quality food, polluted air, extreme climatic conditions, and a whole host of other tension forming things combined with lack of body-mind awareness.

Q: Is Shiatsu only relevant when I am ill?

A: Ideally we should all receive regular Shiatsu to keep us feeling well and balanced.  
In fact, regular Shiatsu treatments can alleviate physical and emotional stress and act as an excellent preventative treatment.  

There is a saying in oriental medicine that “prevention is better than cure”.  

In China during the early years health care was basically preventative.  A Chinese practitioner was paid when a person was well.  If he/she became ill the patient received free treatment.  Therefore, it was better for the practitioner to keep his patients well!

As cost can be a factor for some people it may be possible to lengthen the period between sessions at a later stage.  Concessions are also available for those who are on a low income.  Please feel free to ask as I wish to make this therapy available as much as possible.  I do not consider Shiatsu therapy to be a luxury, but rather an important treatment.

Q: Can I combine Shiatsu with another therapy or treatment?

A: Shiatsu is can be a great “stand alone” therapy, but can also be extremely effective when combined with another Mind Body Centre treatment.  Clients usually end up using all of the services over a period of time according to their needs.

Q: How might I feel after my Treatment?

A: Because Shiatsu does affect the internal environment of your body, you may have different responses to this re-balancing.  Most of the time responses are pleasant and very positive.  You may also feel nothing at all.  This is just fine too and doesn't mean that the treatment didn't work.  Sometimes however, there may be some discomfort which usually is a normal part of the healing process.

Common positive effects of Shiatsu include:

1. Relief of your pain or symptoms.
2. Improvement in your flexibility and range of motion.
3. Improved digestion / circulation / respiration.
4. Less tension.
5. Better sleep.
6. Emotional peace.
7. Clearer thinking.

After a Treatment you may also feel a lot more energized and because of that, some people tend to overdo and feel more tired later.

You may also feel a sense of joy or light-heartedness.


Common negative effects of Shiatsu: On rare occasions, you may feel some discomfort which usually is a sign that your body is re-balancing.  These reactions should have dissipated within 48 hours.  Among these:

• Tiredness is very common.
• Nausea can occur on rare occasions.
• A few people may also experience some soreness after a treatment, similar to the soreness you'd experience after exercising.
• At times, new pains can appear as the old one disappears.  This usually is a previous problem re-surfacing as your body does its re-balancing.
• Bruising, though not common, may sometimes occur even with appropriate pressure.  You may be more susceptible to bruising if you are very tired or take aspirin.  Tell your therapist so that s/he can adjust the pressure.

Other unexpected reactions are also possible, such as headaches, heavier menstrual flow, runny nose, bowel movement or feeling cold - a sign of the deep relaxation.

Q: What should I do after my treatment?

A: It is always a good idea to drink plenty of water as toxins are often released (this should be viewed as a positive result of your treatment; the drinking of water just makes this process easier on you).  If possible, you should avoid rushing around after receiving your treatment.

Q: How many Shiatsu treatments will I need?

A: This will depend on your condition.  Generally, the more chronic and long term your condition, the more treatments will be required as it will take more time for the body to balance itself.  
Sometimes the first benefits to occur do not improve the main complaint, but rather overall health.  

For example, the body's eliminative functions may have to be improved before specific pain can be relieved.  

The duration and frequency of treatment will vary from person to person as will the total number of sessions.  

If your requirement is only to reduce stress then one treatment may help.  Certainly you are welcome to book one treatment without committing yourself to a course of treatment.  However, further sessions will deepen your experience of relaxation as your body becomes used to receiving Shiatsu.  

Some back, neck and shoulder symptoms can sometimes be alleviated with a single treatment but generally need more sessions.

Q: Can I drink alcohol?

A: It is best not to drink alcohol on the day of your treatment.

Q: Should I eat before coming for treatment?

A: It is best not to eat a big meal for two or three hours before a treatment.  This is because lying down with pressure applied to your torso after a full meal would feel uncomfortable.  You can have a light meal before your treatment.

Q: What should I wear?

A: Wear loose clothing such as a track suit that will keep you warm, as the metabolic rate usually slows down, leading to feeling cold.  It is best not to wear any jewellery, perfume or aftershave, and to keep make-up to a minimum.  

Q: What if I am on medication?

A: If applicable, have details available of current medical diagnosis and of any medication you may be taking.  Always make your practitioner aware of any changes to your medical treatment and / or medication

Q: I am pregnant, is it safe to receive Shiatsu?

A: Pregnant women greatly benefit from Shiatsu.  Since Shiatsu is known for balancing energy (Ki) it will make the fetus feel more comfortable during the gestation period.  Shiatsu is also excellent at addressing most common problems arising from pregnancies such as back pain, nausea, morning sickness, etc.

The combination of Shiatsu treatments and specific exercises usually recommended by your Shiatsu therapist, will also help you have a trouble-free delivery.  For the Treatment, you would lie on your side with extra pillows for comfort and relaxation.  At the last stage of the pregnancy Shiatsu is particularly beneficial.