Inner Fire Works: Shiatsu Massage and Energy Healing

Shiatsu Treatments at Inner Fire Works

Shiatsu is the Japanese word for thumb pressure, and it describes a form of massage that uses pressure to release blockages in the body. This pressure can be given with the thumb, or with the elbow, foot or palm of the hand. Usually, the Shiatsu practitioner applies pressure along the whole length of various energy meridians, according to which areas of the body need attention. These meridians are the same energy lines that acupuncturists use to treat a wide range of conditions.

A Shiatsu treatment does not need massage oil, and almost all of our treatments are given with clothing on. Occasionally, after a first treatment, we might suggest that you have an oil massage in the future, because direct skin contact and warm oils can have their own benefit. We also like to refer our clients to specialists in acupuncture, osteopathy, foot reflexology, and so forth, because we feel that all these therapies have their own value.

Shiatsu treatments are traditionally given on the floor, on a Japanese mattress called a futon. In this position, the Shiatsu practitioner can use his weight effectively when applying pressure, and it is also possible to add rocking and shaking movements. At Inner Fire Works, we also offer modified Shiatsu treatments on a massage chair and a massage table. These are a good option for people who have trouble getting on the floor, or for people who would like us to give a treatment at their workplace or at a nursing home.

To learn more about the medical theory of Shiatsu, its history, etc., please visit our links page.

Click here to see more photographs of Shiatsu treatments at Inner Fire Works (these pictures all come from our old house, and from before Paulus cut his hair!)