To help you make the most of your shiatsu experience, I've included this page that hopefully anticipates and answers most of the questions you may have. If I've missed something, contact me!

What, if anything, do I wear?

Shiatsu treatments are given with your clothes on. Best to have or bring light comfortable clothing, like what you would wear to lounge, exercise or do yoga in. Socks are optional, but keep in mind that I do work on the feet, and if I happen to follow with attention to your face, you may prefer to have clean socks or at least freshly-washed feet. :) (Also, make-up and hair may get a little, um, mussed, so prepare accordingly..)

Oh, and please refrain from eating at least an hour before your session. Keeps your nervous system (and awareness) activated and sharp, and if I happen to do abdominal massage, you'll be glad you waited.

How long is a session?

Standard-length is an hour, unless scheduled otherwise. If it's your first session, you'll need time to fill out an intake form, talk about your stuff, and sometimes folks need a little 'recovery' time after the session. I try to schedule a buffer zone between sessions for such a need, so you don't feel rushed out the door.

Intake form here. Goal sheet here. (Feel free to print these out and bring with...)

The picture shows a mat on the floor. Is that where I'll be?

More than likely, yes. Shiatsu treatments are traditionally given on the floor, for me to best facilitate the kind of touch, pressure and stretches needed. Every now and then I may have you on a table, especially if you prefer it. (Some of clients do, due to age and or agility) That purple thing is a 'body cushion' (tm) used for the face-down position. It keeps the spine and neck tractioned, and allows for space for pregnant bellies and/or more (ahem) well-endowed women.

How many sessions will I need?

It really depends on what your goals are. Some people come in just to try it, some have acute stuff going on, some have longer term issues. Some folks do a monthly or seasonal tune-up. My own opinion is that if you're working on something, give it at least three sessions, once a week/week and a half, to get a sense of whether shiatsu is working for you. I have pre-paid packages, starting with three sessions for $175, to make this a little easier for you.

I've heard shiatsu can hurt. Is this true?

There are some practitioners that do believe shiatsu pressure should be very strong to be effective. This can be true in that the receiver's body, if pushed past its barriers, will succumb and relax, and the healing effects will be more immediate. But often this can be exhausting, and somewhat unpleasant. My own approach is to give enough pressure to hold your attention but not enough to arouse resistance and muscular tension. There may some tender areas, but these are useful information for you and are usually tolerable. (Unless you really want me to go at it.. :)

Anything I should expect or do after the session?

It's recommended that you drink a comfortable amount of water, relax if you are able, and pay attention to your bodily sensations and mental/emotional responses over the next few days. There are occasional incidences of soreness, tiredness, headaches, increased intestinal activity or heightened emotions. This is normal, and simply the natural response to increased ki circulation. Sometimes taking notes of what you become aware of is helpful, and if you have any concerns about what you are experiencing, please contact me. (On that same note, many people also report feeling profoundly relaxed, sleeping really well that night, increased appetite, and calmer responses to stress. Feel free to call me about those as well!)

Anything I should warn you about?

I do ask a few questions on my intake form, but yeah, things like intending to get pregnant, or already pregnant (especially first trimester), heart issues, breathing problems, osteoporosis, cancer, colds or flu... these things don't necessarily preclude you coming in, but you should let me know before you do, so we can talk about it.

Aannnd, the money thing?

Ah yes. Payment is expected at the time of service. I take cash or check (just a side-note: most people have more success writing legibly before the session..). I do not currently take credit cards myself... I've not had so much of a need to support credit card companies to warrant it, but if you really insist, I can hook you up if necessary. (My office mates will oblige...)

What if I'm running late, or have an emergency, or, um, forget to come?

Life happens. Happens to me too. I try to allow for it, but I also have to be respectful of my other clients and my family. Obviously, letting me know as soon as you can, whether you're running late or can't make it, is muchly appreciated. (610-304-5120) If you're late, and I'm able to still get you your hour, I will do my best. I allow one non-emergency no-show free of charge, but after that, I ask for my time to be compensated for. Even if I ended up with a bonus spontaneous lunch break. If lateness or no-shows become a problem, then hey, let's talk. I'm not a meanie, and maybe we can work something out. Same with bounced checks. 

So, is that it?

Well, it is what you want it to be. Shiatsu works best when incorporated into a larger healthy lifestyle. Eating well, moving your body, taking care of your soul... all of these will supportive of and supported by regular bodywork. And I can help. I got lots o'tricks up my sleeve.

The stuff that especially makes my heart sing is helping women with stuff like PMS, menstrual irregularities, pregnancy and post-pregnancy discomforts, hormonal changes, support in self-care, and more 'vague' issues like fibromyalgia.

Final word:

It is my intention to provide each client a relaxing and rewarding experience, drawing on my skills and experience, to help you reach your health goals. While I do my best to be present and attentive to your needs, preferences and sensitivities in every session, there are those times where I may fall short, and I hope that you can bring the oversights to my attention, so I may address them. But as an even greater assurance to you, I offer a money-back guarantee if you feel the session is not up to your expectations. Sound good?