Frequently Asked Questions
How should I prepare for my first treatment?
Bring or wear comfortable clothing or sweats/ yoga clothes. Make sure your pants are stretchy and don`t impede movement. Prepare to wear a mask throughout. The Futon is heated so you shouldn't be too cold if you wear comfortable loose or pyjama type clothes.
What should I expect from my first session?
There will be a roughly 15 min interview, similar to a health questionnaire before our first session. If you are not comfortable sitting cross-legged on the futon we can do the first questions at a desk and sitting in chairs. There will be pressure with palms and thumbs, rotations of joints and stretches.
Do you help treat terminal or chronic illness?
Shiatsu can help energy circulate and regulate the nervous system through relaxing techniques. In massage, we don't treat or prescribe but Shiatsu can help calm the nervous symptom and therefore promote wellbeing. Though is better seen for its preventative nature.
How does Shiatsu differ from a swedish massage?
Shiatsu is done on a futon on the floor instead of a massage table. This allows the practitioner to practice differently and be on their knees next to the person ergonomically rather than standing. There is no oil as the massage is practised on top of clothing. There are joint mobilisations and stretches much like Thai massage. All of this is to promote mindfulness and consciousness, getting in tune with the body, promoting self-contact and can release stress, tension and anxiety. There is an energetic aspect to Shiatsu that you can read more about on my About page in the History of Shiatsu.