Zen Shiatsu

Zen Shiatsu is an enhanced form of the traditional Japanese healing art of Shiatsu, which has been practiced in the Orient for over 5,000 years.  The program was developed by the late Shizuto Masunaga, a Shiatsu master teacher and Professor of Psychology at Tokyo University. He developed the Zen style of Shiatsu based on healing methods of traditional chinese medicine including meditation, visualization, five element theory and energy meridian exercise.  One of his major contributions to the study of Shiatsu is the documentation of extensions to the twelve primary meridians. His teachings include the theory that most energy imbalance can be treated in the abdomen, back, neck or limbs and the healing effects of Shiatsu are not confined to the twelve traditional meridian channels.  Masunaga also authored several books on the benefits of Shiatsu combined with meridian exercise and meditation for improving physical and emotional health. The Zen Shiatsu theory is the root of the teachings of many modern schools of Shiatsu, including Zen Shiatsu of Chicago and the Ohashiatsu Institute in New York City.

A Zen Shiatsu session is given on a Japanese style futon with the client fully clothed.  Although the complete assessment of the client condition is based on observation, listening, feeling and asking, the practitioner is trained to feel and evaluate the energy circulation with their hands to find imbalanced areas of the body.   The main focus of the session is to detect and nourish the weak areas but also disperse excess energy that may be causing imbalance in the various organ systems.  

The session is reinforced by providing the client with specific instructions on using meridian stretches and breathing therapy for self help in maintaining energy balance and improving circulation.  These techniques stimulate the natural healing powers of the body and help to relieve symptoms of many diseases.

There are many benefits derived through a Zen Shiatsu session, but most notably clients report an improved sense of relaxation, self awareness and well being.  Zen Shiatsu is traditionally used as a preventative therapy but is very effective in the alleviation of chronic body pain, improving flexibility and enhancing digestive functions.