Shiatsu:

Shiatsu is different from the other types of massage listed. It's from Japan and is based on Acupuncture but no needles are used. Instead of targeting a specific problem (say Asthma) in Shiatsu the whole body/mind/spirit is considered and treated.

The opening evaluation is a crucial component of the session's work. The session begins with a detailed intake and an energetic evaluation, where I lightly palpate the abdomen (called "the Hara") and then begin working with the goal of balancing the movement of Qi (pronounced 'chee', literally "life force") around energetic pathways of the body called meridians. Shiatsu uses stretches, compression and finger-point work to stimulate the movement of Qi.

In 5-element style, which I practice, there is a greater emphasis on opening the meridians, so there is a lot of stretching and compression, compared to Zen style where they do more point work. Shiatsu is very effective with chronic conditions that don't easily yield to western medicine: menstrual complaints, insomnia, fatigue, etc.

Shiatsu can be done on the table or on the floor. The client wears loose-fitting comfortable clothing and no lubricant is used.