Shiatsu What is Shiatsu?   Shiatsu is a Japanese form of healing which uses the power of touch, stretching, breathing, visualisations and gentle or deep pressure to  treat the whole person on a physical and emotional level.  It is deeply relaxing yet invigorating and creates a feeling of tranquility, well being and balance.  It is  based on the same principles as acupuncture although a Shiatsu Practitioner uses hands rather than needles.    The Oriental theory behind Shiatsu is that the body’s natural energy (chi) flows through the body in channels known as meridians.  Physical or emotional tensions cause the flow of energy to become blocked and physical or emotional symptoms appear (eg stress, muscular aches)   The aim of Shiatsu is to encourage the body to release those blockages and reharmonise this flow of chi leading to an easing of physical or emotional imbalances.   Shiatsu during pregnancy gives the mother an opportunity to connect deeply with her baby and herself.  Shiatsu nourishes both body and mind to enable the best and balanced production of natural energy for mother and baby.   In pregnancy, the quiet healing space gives the mother an opportunity to connect deeply with her baby. A key underlying belief in shiatsu is that pregnancy is seen as a healthy movement from womanhood to motherhood- a time where there is much potential for change, growth and personal development.  There is often anxiety due to many changes.  Shiatsu helps woman keep in tune with her body and the changes and see and feel that it is all part of a process.  As a woman feels more in control and empowered and starts having more confidence in the whole process, she often find that some discomforts lessen such as  anxiety and breastfeeding difficulties.   What does a Shiatsu session involve?   A Shiatsu session begins with a consultation to enable a personalised treatment to be given.   The Shiatsu practitioner works on the fully clothed patient on a comfortable futon on the floor.  Supportive cushions may be used to ensure the receiver is as comfortable as possible.  The receiver may lie in whatever position is most comfortable (side, supine, prone or sitting)   Shiatsu involves applying gentle or deep pressure along the body’s natural energy pathways (meridians) and appropriate acupuncture and stress release points.  Stretches, joint mobilisation and more massage type techniques may also be included where appropriate.   By connecting with this energy flow ( ki or chi) blockages can be released enabling natural balance to be restored.  This encourages both body and mind to release deep-seated physical and emotional tensions.   Recommendations appropriate to the individual can be made.   Commonly Treated Conditions   Shiatsu may help in a wide range of conditions, from specific injuries to more general symptoms, and it is excellent for maintaining well being.  Regular sessions help to prevent the build up of stress, emotional or physical, in daily life.   Muscular tensions and stiffness such as backache, neck and shoulder discomfort Headaches Difficulty ‘switching off’ Stress Emotional conditions (eg. anxiety, irritation, depression) Fatigue Morning sickness Heartburn Breathlessness Digestive problems (constipation, diarrhoea) Oedema Insomnia Menstrual problems Breastfeeding difficulties     Shiatsu for Induction   In labour there are specific acupressure points which may induce labour This treatment can be offered from the 38th week.   Shiatsu & Acupressure for Labour   There are a number of acupressure points that can ease the intensity of labour and the conditions that are often experienced by birthing women such as nausea, fatigue, fear, pain of contractions, inability to relax and ‘go with the flow’…   Being able to help your partner in a practical way during the pregnancy and the birth of your child is an amazing bonding experience.   Birth partners will have the opportunity to learn Shiatsu techniques and acupressure points during some of the Birth Preparation Classes and Workshops.  Alternatively, you can book a one to one, private session.   Shiatsu for Postnatal Period   The postnatal period is an important yet often overlooked transition time for the new mother, father and baby.  The mental, emotional and physical energy required to birth will have depleted the woman’s reserves of chi.  If time is not allowed for rest and the rebalancing of energies, particular conditions may arise such as postnatal depression, difficulties breastfeeding, constipation and persistent lochia.     How many sessions are beneficial?   The whole process is very individual and is tailored to each person's needs. The number of treatments recommended varies from person to person depending on their circumstances.  Some find great benefit in having regular sessions throughout their maternity and postnatal period as their body is constantly changing and different symptoms may come up. Others may find monthly treatments work for them.   When can I have Shiatsu?   You may have Shiatsu after your first trimester.    Treatments Offered   Shiatsu for Pregnancy or Postnatally 1 hour -  £50   Location - Blackheath  (Home visits possible)   About Edwina Contact