Shiatsu was discovered over 4000 years ago, originating in India and China and later spreading to Japan where the technique was formalized into a structured system.

Shi means finger and Atsu means pressure. Shiatsu is a deep vertical pressure using palms, thumbs, elbows and sometimes knees applied to numerous pressure points that lie along the energy pathways in the body called meridians. These channels of energy unite the entire body into an organized whole.

The Chinese consider good health to be a state of energy balance within the human body, therefore they regard body tissues and structures primarily in relation to the energy activating them.

Shiatsu is very practical in that little equipment is used. Traditionally Shiatsu is performed on a futon on the floor with the recipient wearing loose fitting clothing, no oils are used.

Shiatsu is both a physical massage and an energetic therapy stimulating blood and energy (Qi) circulation, releasing stiffness, regulating the nervous system, hence relieving stress and tension as well as aiding proper digestion. Most importantly, Shiatsu stimulates the body's own natural recuperative healing powers.