Shiatsu Sheena Oxer BSc Hons European Shiatsu School Diploma MRSS Topsham, Devon UK

  Practising in EXETER and EXMOUTH

What is Shiatsu? 

Shiatsu is a traditional hands-on Japanese healing art which is received through clothes, and is usually carried out on a futon on the floor. Shiatsu literally means finger pressure when translated from Japanese; shi meaning finger and atsu pressure. It works in a similar way to Chinese acupuncture, but without needles. According to the Chinese theory energy flows through channels in the body called meridians. In Shiatsu relaxed pressure is applied to the receiver using thumbs, hands, arms and elbows in order to rebalance this flow of energy.

Although Shiatsu is carried out on the body, its benefits are not limited to the physical as it works on the mental and emotional levels as well. The treatment aims to deal with underlying causes, rather than merely treating the symptoms of dis-ease.

Each treatment is unique to the clients individual needs and is based on a discussion between you and your practitioner. The emphasis is on client comfort and relaxation.

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Guidelines for receiving Shiatsu

Shiatsu is carried out through clothing so it is best to  wear warm, loose, comfortable clothing, such as tracksuit trousers, long sleeve top and clean socks, all preferably cotton.
It is preferable if you havent eaten a large meal for about two hours prior to treatment.
Please do not come soon after vaccinations.

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What to expect in a treatment

A treatment usually lasts about an hour. Your practitioner will ask a few questions about your current physical and emotional well-being, and medical history. You will be asked if there are any symptoms that you wish to be addressed. However, you need not have anything wrong with you in order to come for a Shiatsu treatment.
The treatment will include physical techniques such as stretches, gentle joint rotations and pressure on acupuncture points.
After the treatment, suggestions may be given for things that you can do to further help yourself.

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Shiatsu can help to:

• maintain and support good health

• relieve aches and pains, including back and shoulder pain and headaches

• improve respiratory problems

• mobilise joints

• improve sleep quality

• increase body awareness

• relieve stress and anxiety

• improve digestive disorders

• encourage deep relaxation

• boost the immune system

• increase energy levels

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About Sheena

I studied Shiatsu for three years with the European Shiatsu School, and gained a Diploma in Shiatsu. During my course I passed exams on Shiatsu theory, anatomy, physiology and pathology, all with distinction. I have been independently assessed by the Shiatsu Society, giving me MRSS status (Member of the Register of the Shiatsu Society).

I have a degree in Applied Biology and worked in healthcare research for eight years. I have always had a keen interest in health. I believe in integrated healthcare, taking the best from Western and complementary medicine.

Modern day living

Society has a tendency to pressure us into rushing here, there and everywhere, and to be always on the move. Sometimes, however, we need to take some time just for ourselves -to nurture ourselves. Shiatsu gives us this opportunity to take a step back and look objectively at who we are and what we are doing with our bodies, minds, emotions and the situations we find around us. It gives us the space to be and aids the body to heal itself.

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