Come on let’s talk about these things. Stress, Anxiety and Depression are discussed more openly these days but it still seems that they are still, at least a little, taboo. In the 10 years that I have been practicing Shiatsu mental strain, Stress, Anxiety and Depression seem to have become more prevalent, I am treating more clients with these types of concerns.

To me it’s not a surprise. I have many clients who come to my Exeter practice and talk about their busy lives. Inevitably they have too much to do, are juggling numerous different priorities and are not getting anywhere near enough personal time. They find themselves spending the little precious time they have in their heads, trying to fathom out how to get out of their current situation.

Work seems to be a big factor in the pressure and stress that people feel in their lives. Jobs are more about targets and financial restrictions that supporting individual workers. Clients often express feeling out of control, trapped, hurt and deeply affected by decisions made in their workplace.

There are many ways to support Mental Health issues, meditation, Mindfullness, taking time out, counselling, cognitive therapies. Shiatsu is one way that someone with Stress, Anxiety or Depression can find support, relief and solutions.

Shiatsu is a supportive and safe form of hands-on therapy. It is always given through clothes, which often eases any fears or concerns about having therapeutic hands-on work. It originates from Japan, so has an Eastern ethos and theory behind it. The treatment looks to balance the energies in the body, to ease ailments, concerns or issues. It is gentle and nurturing but can be more physical and dynamic if appropriate.

Shiatsu may help to relieve and ease feelings of Stress and Anxiety and may lighten low moods and Depression. It provides deep rest and relaxation, aiding better sleep and softer more flexible thought patterns. It can also provide a sense of support and space, a chance to feel exactly how you feel and maybe let go of some of the mental burden.

What makes Shiatsu different is that the work is totally centered on the body, the tensions and stresses that it holds. When balanced with Shiatsu the body can feel relief, relaxation and release, the mind and emotions can follow what the body does. This can provide the client with a sense of being back in control of themselves, rather than at the mercy of their feelings. With this sense of control comes opportunity, to make changes or take steps forward in their lives.

I would hope Shiatsu would provide some sense of relief and relaxation within a session or two, along with better sleep patterns, if this is out of balance. Then would look at regular Shiatsu treatments following on, to support the body’s balance. The regularity of these sessions would depend on the individual situation. I always work to expand the time between sessions, as quickly as possible, until the client has Shiatsu just a few times a year.

I have given Shiatsu, here in my Exeter practice, to a number of clients with concerns around Anxiety, Stress and Depression, along with many other issues and concerns. I feel confident working in this area and enjoy watching the positive changes that clients are able to make in their lives.