• Physical:  When the Giver's finger or thumb makes contact with the skin of the Receiver, even through the light clothing recommended for receiving a treatment, heat is generated, melting the gel around cells in the vicinity. As the gel becomes a solution, suspended toxins are released into the lymphatic system to be eliminated through the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
• Energetic: the solution better allows conduction of the Qi's healing message through the connective tissues and organ-meridian networks regulating the body-mind systems.
• Mental/Spiritual: Connection with Spirit and conscious use of Intuition are supported by Intention:

• Shiatsu derives its theoretical and practical roots from the ancient traditions of Eastern healing and philosophy.It is sometimes described as Japanese physiotherapy.
• Shiatsu is Japanese meaning finger (shi) and pressure (atsu).
• Similar to acupuncture but without the use of needles.
• Also reffered to as acupressure as it involves the stimulation of the accupoints with pressure
• Shiatsu Calms an overactive sympathetic nervous system,  improves circulation, relieves stiff muscles, and alleviates stress.  

Principle

• The application of pressure is the underlying principle of shiatsu.
• We use fingers and thumbs to apply pressure precisely over localized points and hands , elbows, knees, and feet to apply pressure over larger areas.
• Includes gentle stretches and manipulation techniques. 
• We apply rhythmic and gradual pressure along the enrgy channels of the body known as Meridians
• Stretching exercises and other corrective techniques creates flexibility and balance in the body, both physically and energetically.

Shiatsu works on the flow of energy or Qi that circulates through our bodies in specific energy channels or meridians. Traditional Chinese Medicine suggests that we all have a "life force" or "life energy" which created our physical structure and regulates physical, emotional, mental and spiritual stability. This life force, called Qi, maintains a homeostatic balance in your body.

The flow of Qi can be disturbed either through external trauma, such as an injury, or internal trauma such as depression or stress. This is when symptoms like aches and pain start to occur and we start to experience a state of "dis-ease". In shiatsu the physical touch is used to assess the distribution of Qi throughout the body and to try to correct any imbalances accordingly. 

It is very useful as a complimentary treatment to both allopathic and alternative therapies. Clients can be shown easy self – shiatsu techniques to help recovery and aid the healing process between treatments. Regular treatment s have strong beneficial effects on the immune system. It is an effective preventative practice that will improve general well – being and health. 

• Touch is the essence of shiatsu.
• The caring touch used in shiatsu will help to trigger the self-healing process within.
•  Shiatsu in its simplicity, the hand, an extension of the heart, touching another creates an interaction that has the magic ability to restore a sense of well-being, no matter what the explanation about how and why it works

In Shiatsu we take a holistic approach and look at the whole person – body, mind and spirit in trying to find out where the imbalances and causes of stress lie.

Shiatsu defined by the Japanese Ministry of Health