Some History of Shiatsu

Shiatsu has its roots in Traditional Chinese Medicine and a form of healing massage called Ampuku. By applying presure to certain parts of the body with the hands elbows fingers and sometimes knees, the energetic blocks and imbalances that are the root cause of illness can be balanced out.

In ancient times when medical physicians were not so many in number and rural communities were isolated in inaccessible areas the people had to to depend on each other to help keep themselves well.

Shiatsu and its ancestor therapies were a means by which the people helped to heal each other and maintain their health and vigour.

Certain Famous Japanese Shiatsu Teachers developed some of the traditional techniques and practices into systems of knowledge that could be learnt and realised by the western mind. Many thanks to Masunaga, Namikoshi, Suzuki, and Ohashi for their pioneering work.

Many thanks also to those that provided the tuition, facilities and inspiration that made this healing art accessible, in particular to Kris Devanorth from the Zen School of Shiatsu, whose work as a parent and teacher has brought so much true wealth and opportunity in this world. 

Zen Shiatsu:
You do not learn routines- you learn how to apply the principles of Zen Shiatsu, finding the energetic imbalances in the energy body using your powers of observation, sensitivity and other undefined abilities in perception. Each treatment you give will be different according to the needs and responses of the receiver. This method of learning requires a greater emphasis on awareness and perception, also developing your intuition to a point where it is a necessary and indispensable part of your work. The result will be a natural unfolding of your innate ability to help and heal others, in a way that is safe and enjoyable, creating a wonderful sense of well being not only in the person receiving the treatment, but also in yourself as the one giving it.

Any one interested in developing their ability to track energy patterns and imbalances with an intent to heal may wish to consider doing this course. The Shiatsu taught is a hands on healing therapy applied to the body through the clothing. Although there are chinese meridians and points in the body of theory from which this practice developed, the style taught on this course places a far greater emphasis on working with mystery, energy, sensitivity and most of all, awareness and presence- One of the defined purposes of the course is to learn how to harmonize and strengthen one's own energy field.
You can start the course on Sundays at the West London Yoga Shala, 22 Cleveland Terrace, next to Paddington station. The first class is low cost £12 introductory module (3 hours) so that you can try it out and inform yourself prior to making a commitment to join the course.

Any questions please call Alex on 07914 411263 or contact us here.

All hours studied are recognised by the Shiatsu Society of Great Britain, and the Certificate can get you Membership and liability insurance, should you wish to practice in a limited way for money at any stage.