Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about Shiatsu therapy and sessions.
What is Shiatsu?
Shiatsu is an traditional Japanese therapeutic bodywork technique in which finger pressure is applied along the body’s energetic lines, named meridians, with the main focus of supporting balance and relaxation.
Shiatsu is a Japanese word that literally means Shi (finger) Atsu (pressure), and translates as “finger pressure” or acupressure.
What is Shiatsu Good For?
Shiatsu works as both a supportive treatment and a preventative practice. Its focus is on releasing areas of tension and restoring balance in the body.
According to Eastern theory, discomfort is often associated with energetic imbalance or blockage. These imbalances may contribute to physical tension, discomfort, or reduced well-being.
Shiatsu may help support:
- relaxation and reduced tension
- improved flexibility and mobility
- better circulation
- support for respiratory and digestive function
- overall nervous system balance
In summary, Shiatsu supports the body in functioning more efficiently and promotes a greater sense of overall well-being.
Who can benefit from Shiatsu?
Everyone can benefit from Shiatsu treatments.
Shiatsu works not only as a complementary therapy but also as a preventive approach to support overall well-being.
Because its goal is to promote balance and relaxation, it can be beneficial for a wide range of people.
Meridian LInes
Meridians are energetic pathways that run throughout the body and are associated with internal organ systems.
In traditional Eastern theory, these pathways are classified as Yin or Yang, representing complementary energetic qualities within the body.
Symptoms that may benefit from Shiatsu
Shiatsu may be helpful for a wide range of common conditions, including:
- Lower back pain (lumbalgia)
- Sciatica and back pain
- Muscle and joint tension
- Stress and anxiety
- Headaches and migraines
- Insomnia
- Fatigue and low energy
- Digestive discomfort
- Emotional stress
- Sports-related tension or injury recovery
- PMS-related symptoms
- Allergies (supportive relief)
Treatments & What to Expect
A Shiatsu treatment begins with a short consultation to understand your needs, symptoms, and overall condition.
Shiatsu is usually performed with the client lying down in a relaxed position. The practitioner applies gentle pressure along specific meridians using finger pressure, stretching, and bodywork techniques.
Each session is adapted to your individual condition and needs.
This varies from person to person depending on their condition and response to treatment. Some people notice benefits after one session, while others benefit from ongoing treatments. Regular sessions are often recommended to maintain well-being.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows ease of movement during the session.
After a Shiatsu session, many people feel relaxed, lighter, and more balanced. Some may feel immediate relief, while others notice gradual improvements over time.
History of Shiatsu
References to finger pressure techniques can be found in ancient texts dating back to 475–221 BC, showing early foundations of what would later develop into Shiatsu.
The term “Shiatsu” first appeared in 1919 in Tamai Tenpaku’s book Shiatsu Ho (“Finger Pressure Method”).
In the early 20th century, Tokujiro Namikoshi played a major role in developing and formalizing Shiatsu in Japan. In 1964, Shiatsu was officially recognized by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare as a distinct therapeutic practice.
In the 1970s, Shizuto Masunaga expanded Shiatsu through his “Zen Shiatsu” approach, which combined psychology and traditional Eastern medicine.
Today, Shiatsu continues to evolve through many styles while maintaining a shared foundation based on balance, pressure, and holistic well-being.
Insurance Coverage
The S.T.A. is the registering body for Registered Shiatsu Therapist (R.S.T.) practitioners.
R.S.T. practitioners are currently covered under third-party health care billing in select plans with providers such as GreenShield, Sun Life, Manulife, and Equitable Life.
As insurance coverage varies between companies and plan types, we recommend contacting your provider directly for a complete list of included treatments under your policy.
To confirm coverage for services provided by an R.S.T., please check your individual or group health plan for eligibility.
To submit a claim, request a receipt from your R.S.T. Shiatsu practitioner and submit it through your regular insurance claims process.