Shiatsu Workshops

Shiatsu Workshops off to Shining Start

Yesterday we had out first ever Shiatsu training here and the day was beautiful!  The sun poured in from the East as we took turns melting into relaxation on the wooden floor padded with a few blankets. This was my first experience of Shiatsu and I found it to be very similar to the Marma Therapy that I include with my Abhyangam Massages. The biggest difference being that this Shiatsu style of massage is done on the floor and the receiver is fully clothed, whereas the way I have learned Marma Therapy it is given as part of an oil massage and the client is on the massage table.

There are so may different methods and schools of manipulative therapy that are effective treatments of applied stimulation to the human body. In Japan, Shiatsu is considered a medical treatment. Like any such therapy it’s effectiveness depends on the skill of the practitioner along with the method.. We are fortunate here to have a masterful practitioner to train us and I should add that these trainings are not at this point to train professionals but are a sharing of some of the basics so that anyone can help to keep their friends and family healthy.

Our teacher Thommas Michaud, believes that incorporating regular Shiatsu treatments along with a balanced diet will keep us healthy.  It is food that nourishes life and is fundamental to good health, add Shaitsu and we help to balance the nervous system and keep the energy in the body functioning optimally.  According to the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare “Shiatsu therapy is a form of manipulation administered by the thumbs, fingers, and palms, without the use of any instrument, mechanical or otherwise, to apply pressure to the human skin, correct malfunctioning, promote and maintain health, and treat specific diseases.”

While it would take many years to become an Accupunturist or Shiatsu Therapist and work with the energy points and meridians (or pathways of energy in the body), the fundamentals of Shiatsu can be learned in a few days and used in a safe and effective manner. The next Level One day long class will be offered here on Saturday April 16 and I highly recommend the experience!

Sandra Sagarmurti Shotton