what is shiatsu?

the Japanese word “shiatsu” translates literally to “finger pressure”. this form of bodywork uses finger, palm, elbow, and knee pressure to work the length of a meridian (energy or ki/qi channel) in the body. you may think of shiatsu as being similar to acupuncture without the needles.

hands as witness: the practice of shiatsu recognizes that each body holds all the information that it needs to attune to itself and begin a healing process. everyday life, acute and chronic stress, and trauma that is present, historical, or ancestral, often take us away from our bodies, creating imbalances in our system. this can often manifest as (non-exhaustively): chronic/acute pain, fatigue, insomnia, emotional distress, and anxiety, or leave us more vulnerable to illnesses and infections.

as a practitioner, I believe that by witnessing and connecting through touch, you can be reminded of the inherent knowledge that your body holds. the touch is the medicine. you may leave a session feeling energized, rested, or more aware of what steps need to be taken next for your health and peace of mind.

what happens in a session? shiatsu takes place fully clothed on a mat on the floor with pillows, and headrests when needed. i recommend wearing comfortable and loose-fitting, full-length clothes like sweatpants or yoga pants. t-shirts and loose, long-sleeved shirts work well.

each session begins by connecting with the Hara, or the energetic center of a person’s body, located on the abdomen. in addition to palm, finger, elbow, knee and forearm pressure, our session may include some rocking and stretching.

our session will last anywhere from 60 minutes to 90 minutes. we will start by checking in about what you may be experiencing in your body presently.

bodywork can be an activating and responsive experience. please communicate any places on your body that you do not want to receive touch or pressure. for example, clients with varicose veins, and chronic knee or shoulder pain may be more sensitive to pressure in those areas. likewise, clients with individual traumatic experiences may not be open to touch and pressure in certain areas. I commit to checking in during sessions, and I also encourage you to be vocal and express if you need a break, less pressure, or no touch at all.

ongoing education… I began training in september 2023 and will complete my certification in October 2024. currently, practice sessions with me are on a pay-what-you-can/donation basis. I am also open to trades (see below!).

suggested monetary donation: sliding scale $50 - $100
cash, venmo & Paypal accepted

trades I am open to:
bodywork/energy work
fresh vegetables and/or local meat/milk or cheese
a homecooked meal
handmade knits (a warm hat/balaclava/scarf…)