Shiatsu Therapy: Deep Relaxation Through Traditional Japanese Bodywork

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Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese bodywork therapy rooted in Japanese and Chinese medicine. Using grounded, sustained pressure with the hands and thumbs along the body's meridians, it helps release tension, encourage energetic balance, and promote deep relaxation.
 

Natanel studied Shiatsu Therapy for two years in 2003 and has many years of hands-on experience. His grounded, intuitive approach is tailored to each client's individual needs.
 

A Whole-Body Approach
 

Shiatsu is guided by the principles of Chinese and Japanese medicine. Gentle abdominal palpation, known as Hara diagnosis, helps assess patterns of tension and energetic imbalance, guiding the focus of treatment.

Rather than simply working on tight muscles, Shiatsu aims to support the body's overall balance, helping the nervous system settle, easing physical tension, and encouraging the natural flow of Qi (life energy).
 

A Different Kind of Bodywork
 

Unlike conventional massage, Shiatsu is performed fully clothed, so please wear loose, comfortable clothing. Treatments take place on a padded treatment table rather than a traditional floor mat, making the experience comfortable and accessible.

The slow, sustained pressure offers a deeply grounding experience, particularly for those seeking relaxation, relief from muscular tension, and a greater sense of physical and emotional balance.
 

Shiatsu and Acupuncture: A Complementary Approach
 

Acupuncture uses fine needles to stimulate specific points, while Shiatsu offers the sustained, nurturing touch that many people find deeply relaxing.

Both approaches draw on traditional East Asian medicine and can complement one another, offering different ways to support balance, relaxation, and overall well-being.
 

What to Expect
 

1. Brief consultation and assessment

We begin with a short discussion of your main concerns. Natanel then gently palpates specific abdominal reflex zones to assess patterns associated with the Five Elements and internal organ systems from a Chinese Medicine perspective. This helps guide the focus of your treatment.
 

2. Personalized Shiatsu treatment

Using sustained, comfortable pressure along the meridians of the legs, arms, back, and other areas as needed, Natanel works to ease tension and encourage whole-body relaxation. You will be guided through comfortable positions lying on your back, front, and sides.
 

3. A whole-body shift

Rather than focusing only on individual tight muscles, the intention is to help the body settle as a whole, reduce accumulated tension, and support the balanced flow of Qi.
 

A complete treatment lasts approximately 50 minutes, offering time to slow down, unwind, and reconnect with your body.