Shiatsu

 

Although the syllabus requires some form of recognized first-aid training, everyone should take personal responsibility for gaining adequate first-aid knowledge. Organizations such as St John Ambulance and the Red Cross offer and promote first-aid courses. Anyone aspiring to become a teacher is strongly advised to obtain a qualification.

No one is suggesting that teachers need a medical degree, but they should have sufficient knowledge to handle emergencies that may arise in the dojo. It is important to understand that legal responsibilities and liabilities exist whether a person is trained in first aid. If a teacher has no first-aid knowledge or qualifications, their credibility may be questioned. On the other hand, a teacher who provides first aid may be praised for helping, but could still face legal action if the injured person is dissatisfied with the outcome. Having a first-aid qualification does not automatically grant the right to act in every situation. The key message is to be prepared, but also cautious.

Many people prefer to study more traditional methods such as shiatsu and katsu. Although these practices are not officially recognized by the British Medical Association, they continue to attract followers who are interested in alternative medicine. They are not intended to replace conventional first aid, but rather to explore the holistic ideals of budo.

Shiatsu, in particular, has become popular within the martial arts community, and fortunately, it is available as a specialized branch of budo. Katsu is more closely associated with the art of resuscitation and is practiced less frequently than shiatsu. The word “shiatsu” literally means “finger pressure,” and it is far more than a simple massage. Shiatsu is used to address a wide range of ailments and symptoms and is often practiced as a preventative therapy. While it is not difficult to learn, a deeper understanding comes with greater commitment and practice. Shiatsu can become a lifelong study, although practitioners of Aikido and related arts may find its principles easier to understand.

The origins of shiatsu are linked to ancient Chinese medicine and, more specifically, to acupuncture, though no needles are used. Traditional Chinese medicine teaches that the body contains meridians through which energy flows. By applying pressure to specific tsubo (pressure points), this energy can be balanced to promote health and well-being. These meridians are believed to connect with the body’s major organs and systems. Through careful observation and diagnosis, practitioners aim to identify and treat symptoms. Shiatsu has been applied to a broad range of conditions, including respiratory, emotional, and stress-related problems, and many practitioners believe it has produced positive results over time.

So, what qualifications are required to practice shiatsu? The simple answer is that, in principle, anyone can learn it. Provided a person is receptive, sincere, and willing to learn, there is no reason why they cannot practice shiatsu. At its core, shiatsu is about giving selflessly and building trust and rapport with the receiver, or patient. The practitioner is traditionally referred to as the “giver” because of this supportive role.

Shiatsu should ideally be practiced in a warm, comfortable environment free from distractions, where the receiver can feel relaxed and at ease. Soft music is often used to create a calm atmosphere. Practitioners commonly prepare themselves mentally and physically through meditation and stretching exercises before beginning treatment. Traditionally, this preparation is believed to help open the practitioner’s meridians and improve the flow of energy. The receiver usually lies face down while the giver kneels beside them to begin treatment.

The giver may begin by focusing on the back or head, as these areas often help the receiver relax and prepare for the rest of the session. Pressure may be applied using the fingers, palms, and other parts of the hands, but care must always be taken, especially when working with elderly people or children, whose bones may be fragile or still developing. Pressure should never cause pain or discomfort, and extra caution is required when working around joints such as the knees, spine, and neck.

During treatment, the giver may attempt to synchronize their breathing with the receiver, creating a sense of concentration and connection. Every movement is deliberate, yet the overall experience should feel natural and relaxed. Practitioners sometimes report feeling physically tired or emotionally drained after a session.

From an ethical standpoint, shiatsu should present no problems. It has no sexual element and can be performed fully clothed. As long as basic guidelines are followed, it should not cause physical or psychological harm. Again, shiatsu and other forms of natural healthcare are not intended to replace modern medicine. However, some people believe society has become overly dependent on medication, which may have harmful long-term effects.

For those interested in the subject, attending shiatsu courses whenever possible is highly recommended. Many manuals and publications are available and can provide valuable information, but practical experience remains the best way to develop real understanding and skill.

Shiatsu is not a miracle cure, nor is it intended to replace professional medical advice or treatment. However, it can be highly beneficial as a preventative therapy and may, in some cases, help to relieve pain, tension, and stress.

As discussed throughout this guide, the techniques and points described form the basic foundations for understanding and practising shiatsu. For those who wish to deepen their knowledge, a variety of courses and training programmes are available.

Only practitioners with appropriate training, advanced knowledge, and practical experience should attempt to treat individuals with diagnosed medical conditions.

Above all, shiatsu should be an enjoyable and rewarding experience for both giver and receiver

Begin with the receiver lying face down. Kneel beside their hips and place your nearest hand gently on the small of their back. This is referred to as the “mother hand”, as it helps establish a grounding connection and creates a supportive energetic circuit. With your other hand, gently hold and lightly squeeze the receiver’s hand for several moments.

This pause allows both the giver and receiver time to settle, build trust, and establish rapport before beginning the sequence of movements outlined below.

Back:

1. Diagonal stretch

2. Lumbar stretch

3. Palm pressure down the spine.

4. Thumb pressure down the spine

Hips:

1. Pressing the sacral holes

2. Squeezing hips

3. Elbow pressure down on the hips

Back and outside of legs:

1. Palm pressure on the back of the leg

2. Knee pressure on the back leg

3. Press the ankle tsubo’s (Achilles tendon)

4. Three-way stretch.

5. Palm pressure on the side of the leg

6. Press ankle tusbo

7. Walking on soles

8. Press tsubo on the sole

9. Massage the heel

10. Pinching outside of the foot

11. Pull toe

12. Slap toe

13. Pound sole

Back of shoulders:

1. Thumb pressure on top of the shoulders

2. Elbow between blades

3. Rotate shoulder blades

4. Foot pressure on the shoulder

Receiver Positioning (Supine)
The receiver should lie comfortably on their back, with the head supported if needed, using a folded towel or cushion. Arms should rest in a natural, relaxed position by the sides with palms facing upward or inward. Legs should be extended comfortably, with feet relaxed and allowed to fall naturally outward.

Before beginning, allow the receiver a moment to settle. Encourage a few slow, gentle breaths to help them relax and compose themselves if needed. Front of shoulders and neck:

1. Lean on shoulders

2. Press along ribs

3. Neck squeeze

4. Circle the sides of the neck

5. Stretch neck

Head and face:

1. Run hands through hair

2. Hair pull

3. Massage the ears

4. Press the top of the head points

5. Eyes sequence

6. Temple sequence

7. Nose and mouth sequence

Arm and ankles:

1. Palm pressure along the upper arm

2. Grasping the upper arm

3. Palm pressure along the forearm

4. Pulling fingers

5. Pressing “Great Eliminator.”

 Hara:

1. Lower hara

2. Upper hara

3. Rocking hara

                                                                                     

Front and inside of leg:

1. Palm pressure on the inside of the thigh

2. Heel of hand pressure down inside the shin

3. Palm pressure on the front of the thigh

4. Rotate the kneecap

5. Pressing “Stomach 36” tsubo

6. Pressing down outside of the shin

7. Stretch Foot Forward

8. Stretch Foot Back.

Because Shiatsu can be performed in a variety of positions, the receiver may need to sit or lie in whichever posture is most comfortable and appropriate for their needs. The following sequence is most effectively carried out with the receiver in a kneeling position. Ensure they remain comfortable throughout, as older individuals or those with limited mobility may find kneeling for extended periods difficult.

The giver should position themselves behind the receiver in a stable yet relaxed posture. Rest the forearms lightly on the receiver’s shoulders with the fingers pointing downward, then lean in smoothly to apply pressure through the thumbs onto the shoulders. Next, use the side of the knee to apply gentle pressure along the back, followed by open-palmed stretches across the shoulders. Place the palms on the shoulder blades and carefully rotate the shoulders to encourage release and mobility.

The receiver then interlocks their fingers and raises their arms overhead while the giver gently stretches the spine using the side of the knee for support and leverage.

The giver should then move to one side of the receiver and kneel. Place one hand at the base of the skull and the other on the forehead, then very gently rotate the head, taking great care. Many of the arm stretches described above can also be performed from this side position.

If kneeling is uncomfortable or unsuitable, the receiver may instead sit on a stool.