Simon Waring

Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies

Simon is an experienced Shiatsu practitioner who draws on the teachings of Zen, classical and barefoot shiatsu styles. He incorporates subtle Japanese techniques within his practice that range from sotai, cupping and moxibustion, to non-insertive needling techniques.

SHIATSU: a short overview
Shiatsu is a contemporary therapy with its roots in Oriental traditional medicine. The Japanese characters for Shiatsu literally translate as ‘finger pressure’.

Similar to acupressure, with elements of deep tissue bodywork, shiatsu is a Japanese therapeutic massage utilizing the traditional meridians and acupuncture points of Oriental healing. Like many other forms of Oriental medicine, it takes a holistic rather than a symptomatic approach to health and illness. Shiatsu works to restore health and vitality by unblocking and rebalancing the energy pathways of the body.

The actual treatment approach and philosophy is similar to acupuncture in its use of the meridians (energy channels) and tsubo (pressure points) as well as in its diagnostic methods, but without the use of needles.

Unlike most other forms of bodywork, in shiatsu the receiver remains clothed for the treatment and no oil is used for the massage. Pressure can be firm or gentle, vigorous or soothing depending on what the client most needs.

Who does Shiatsu benefit?
Shiatsu brings about a state of deep relaxation while stimulating blood and lymphatic flow, and it is good for everyone to help maintain balance of overall mind/body health.

The body has a great ability to self-heal, but sometimes it needs assistance to remove the objects getting in the way of the healing process. Shiatsu is one technique that can help to remove these blockages

What conditions can Shiatsu help?
Because Shiasu works on the energetic system, it can be useful in a wide range of physical problems, as well as for stress management and other emotional imbalances.

Shiatsu can help in the following ways:

• arthritic conditions
• backaches
• emotional difficulties
• headaches/migraines
• insomnia
• intestinal disorders (irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and diarrhoea)
• menstrual problems (heavy periods and premenstrual syndrome)
• muscular tensions
• reproductive problems (including endometriosis and fibroids)
• respiratory difficulties (asthma, bronchitis and recurrent chest infections)
• sinusitis
• stress related disorders

Structure of a Shiatsu session
When receiving shiatsu, you remain fully clothed, and a treatment (that usually lasts between 45 and 60 minutes) is normally given on a thick futon mat on the floor.
For your treatment it is best to wear loose, preferably cotton, clothing, such as a track suit. You should also avoid having a large meal either directly before, or after having shiatsu.

A session begins with a diagnosis of the flow of energy in the meridians, so that the practitioner knows where to concentrate the work. When you first come for shiatsu, the practitioner will take a case history to find out about any existing medical conditions, physical problems, medication, etc. As a result, this first session usually lasts about 1 1/2 hours, to allow time for this discussion.

Concluding the Shiatsu session
Usually at the end of a session you will feel relaxed and energized, with a sense of calm, or sometimes wanting a long sleep. Normally, there is a noticeable increase in flexibility and a decrease in muscular aches and pains. In order for the healing to continue, the practitioner may offer advice on areas such as diet, stretches, lifestyle or environment.

Following a treatment, how will I feel?
On leaving the treatment room you should keep warm, and if possible rest for a short time.
Some people have a reaction the day after receiving shiatsu. This may range from a boost of energy, to a feeling of wellbeing, or perhaps tiredness, and even slightly flu-like symptoms, as toxins are released. These symptoms should pass off in about a day. If you have any questions about reactions to a session, please contact the practitioner to discuss these.

Qualification details:
Diploma of Health - Shiatsu and Oriental Therapies
Post Graduate Certificate – Manaka Acupuncture Protocols Course
Certificate in Relaxation Massage

As a professional practitioner, Simon is a registered member of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia (STAA).
Health Fund Accredited