The specifics of a shiatsu session may vary with practitioners, but sessions with me include a initial intake process to cover the receiver's general health, past or present injuries or illnesses, eating and exercise habits, typical ways that stress manifests in the body, and specific concerns to be addressed that day.

The session proceeds with the receiver, clothed in light, comfortable clothing, lying on a futon (usually supported by a body cushion to promote spinal alignment). The choice to begin lying face up or down, or side-lying will depend on the receiver's comfort and needs for that session.  I generally begin by either checking certain diagnostic points, or or using general broad palpation and pressure to create an initial sense of safety and relaxation, and introduce the receiver to my touch and energy. The treatment will progress to more specific techniques... pressure, stretching, rocking, massaging, etc, depending on how the receiver is responding and what areas become apparent to be addressed.

In some cases, I will ask the receiver to take conscious breaths, or participate in facilitated isometric stretching, for example, if a hip needs to be released.. or I may direct one's awareness to how something feels, or what is noticed in a certain area.

At the end of the session, I leave the room after I invite the receiver to relax for a few minutes before arising, so that the work has a chance to be integrated into the nervous system response. This is a very important step to take in order to ensure longer lasting effects of the session.

Last updated on June 13, 2008 by Gina Loree' Marks