with Giuliana Di Paola, RMT & Certified Shiatsu Therapist
Shiatsu is a form of Japanese body work based on the theory of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). TCM looks for the true root cause of an illness by understanding the patient physically, emotionally,psychologically and spiritually. This requires a scope of knowledge that goes beyond anatomy and physiology and delves into the concept of energetic flow, or Qi, throughout the body.
Shiatsu is a holistic approach to healing that also takes the energy concept of Qi into account. Qi is our life force that flows through us via channels in our body know as meridians. When Qi is blocked problems both mental and physical arise. Shiatsu massage works to remove the blockages by realigning the acupressure points along the meridians to help restore the smooth flow of Qi. Shiatsu is a non invasive form of therapy that uses deep penetrating pressure with the use of thumbs,fingers,palms and elbows to open up these channels of energy and promote blood circulation to nourish internal organs, glands, muscles and nerves.
Shiatsu promotes the bodies own ability to heal by providing a gentle, relaxing and restorative form of massage. Shiatsu is just as effective as acupuncture but adds another element, a healing touch. By merging both western and eastern views, Shiatsu can treat a variety of conditions such as insomnia, anxiety and depression, headaches, digestive disturbances, menstrual dysfunction, low resistance to infection as well as muscular tension. If the flow of Qi through the body is smooth, balance is restored and the individual is on the path of healing.
