Shiatsu is a physical hands-on therapy but it can be really effective at supporting people on an emotional level. 

Shiatsu massage is gentle but powerful, it isn’t analytical, you don’t have to think or talk through your feelings, it allows the client to see how they feel in their body. This at times can bring emotions to the forefront, it can allow reflection & or release. 

When emotions or emotional memories come up Shiatsu provides a safe & secure space to feel them. Often a client feels a sense of relief, even if the emotion is a difficult one or is associated with a difficult time or situation.

Today I decided that in each of my Shiatsu massages I would focus on using a ‘heart energy’ touch. This relates to 5 Element diagnosis, which is part of Traditional Chinese Medicine & is used within Shiatsu as a form of diagnosis. Each of the 5 elements has a type of touch that relates to it. Because I seen so much nurturing & love being given to the smallest children starting school, at my son’s school, this morning I thought the heart touch would be a good focus for the day. 

This type of touch is nurturing & supportive, it is warming & comforting, it is un-judgemental & without demand or expectation. It is a great touch to allow the client to feel safe & secure, to feel comfortable with exploring what emotions they maybe holding in their body. 

I had a special day of Shiatsu today, it is a privilege to be part of a healing process & to hold a space for people to get the support they need. I hope to have many more heart-felt, warm & kind days.