Last modified April 15, 2010 by Nik

Shiatsu and bodywork

Effective bodywork aims to help with healing processes and self-development by working with joints and muscles, organs and fascia of the whole body to facilitate the release of stuck patterns, tensions and stresses which otherwise lead to mental or physical dis-ease.
Rebalancing of a person’s energy may be achieved through varying pressure on the channels of energy called meridians, or sen~lines. Various stretching techniques may also be incorporated to affect the flow of energy and awareness and to help increase flexibility.

Shiatsu accesses the body-mind through touch to work with the physical (musculo-skeletal and organ) layers through emotional (stability and relationship) to soul level (integrity.) It can access memory and pattern stored in the cells of the body to facilitate release and change. It regards diseases and symptoms as manifestations of imbalance and seeks to resolve the underlying causes. Shiatsu helps stimulate energy (Qi) flow and circulation of blood and lymph, increase flexibility and improve posture. Like acupuncture, it works within the oriental model of meridians and acupressure points, the energy network underlying and informing the body. Acting on the body’s energy system thus, allows the receiver to be more in touch with their own physical, emotional and spiritual nature.

Thai massage is comparable to Shiatsu, but distinct in it’s use of dynamic compression and point pressure along with a unique formula of diverse stretching movements. Thai massage opens the joints and balances all the major muscle groups of the body. The patterns of gentle rhythmic movements ease the recipient into a deeply relaxed state and leave them feeling energized, balanced and more flexible than Mr Fantastic – the incredible rubber man.

Yours truly began Shiatsu training in England way back in the last millennium and continued with Thai massage training in Northern Thailand and further bodywork explorations at the Esalen Institute in California over the 1st decade of the new millennium.

Lear more at www.integrative-body-therapy.com – I would love to hear from you over there!