Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese therapy that involves applying pressure to specific points along the body’s vital energy currents (chi/prana meridians). Through the meridian network, we can access the subtle and fundamental chi system to facilitate revitalization. Using techniques born from Shiatsu and based on the principle of encouraging internal balance, we will allow for a sense of vitality and wellbeing in the whole body by dispersing blockages from head to toe and bringing warmth and awareness to areas in need. Receiving and giving Shiatsu develops a deeper awareness of the subtle flow of chi through the body; useful in cultivating a more intimate relationship with oneself.

As we engage the body as the condensed form of chi, we recognize that it is the microcosm expression of the macrocosm. If we take time to look, a reflection of nature or the world around us can be seen in the body. The 5 elements of Water, Wood, Fire, Earth and Metal can thus be used as a lens to look into the possibilities that exist energetically within us. This model acknowledges the changing nature of existence and is sometimes referred to as The 5 Phase Cycle; an example of this can be seen in the Water element where we may feel robust as we have the ability to flow with ease and grace in one moment, and in the next we can be frozen with fear, feeling stuck and without impetus. We will explore the 5 Elements as they arise in nature and our bodies (various organs, systems, functions and emotional states correspond to the elements) so we can start to use them as indicators to what may be arising in our rich inner landscape and we can better support ourselves as we flow through the celebration of life. 

We live in an era of resurgent interest and respect for ancient practices and their profound effectiveness in cultivating wellness in the human being. Taoist practices are accessible to every body. As we connect to the creative powerhouse of the endocrine system and its related generative organs, we tap into the vast energy that is used to create a human being and we learn to use that energy for our own vitality. The intricate meridian network we learn in Shiatsu will be the super highway used to move this vital energy to all parts of the body that require an infusion of chi/prana/energy.