Shiatsu practice is a bodywork treatment that observes the physical, mental, emotional & spiritual components of our being. It is a practice that reduces stress and enhances wellbeing. This therapeutic & holistic style originated in Japan from a scholar, thinker & innovator named Masunaga Shizuto.

Claire Best trained at The London College of Shiatsu, graduating in 2006 and is a member of the Shiatsu Society. She gained MRSS status following a year post-grad training of Movement Shiatsu with Bill Palmer; ‘Working with trauma & chronic conditions’. Claire worked in a clinic in Chiswick for 6 years & gained additional experience with giving treatments at the Tasha Foundation, working with the carers of alcohol & drug misuse. She has particular interest in the nervous system and relieving muscular back pain. Claire is learning & applying the benefits of macrobiotic cooking from the International Macrobiotic School, Devon.

“If the flow of Ki through the meridians is smooth, the person is healthy. If the flow becomes stuck, the person falls ill.” Masunaga

By combining Western medicine , Oriental theory & Psychology, a treatment plan is made with an enquiry into the root cause of disease or illness. We look at the whole person using an holistic approach and can help with a range of health conditions. Effectively, Shiatsu practice uses holding, stretching, support, rocking, pressure points on the body to improve the flow of vital energy that maintains our health.

“I find receiving a Shiatsu connects me to my body and mind, leaving me feeling completely stretched, calm and grounded. It has helped me release a lot of muscular tension and relieved my back pain that I had been putting up with for 10 years!” Claire

What to expect:

Wearing relaxed clothing, the client lies down on a futon to receive the bodywork. Diagnosis is taken using medical history, questions & abdomen palpation, then a treatment plan is created for what is being presented. The bodywork consists of pressure placed on the body’s energy channels using fingers, palms, elbows, knees, acupressure points and gentle stretches. Depending on the diagnosis, you may be asked to lie on your back, side or front.

The practice helps to release pain & tension but also gives attention to the more depleted & elusive areas of the body in need. Depending on the clients condition, a treatment plan of 4-6 treatments is recommended. At the end of the treatment, some recommendations for your lifestyle or dietary advice may be given.

Of course, you don’t have to have a “condition” to receive Shiatsu! You can have a Shiatsu for pure relaxation and for maintaining your balance in health.

Honey & Herb in Midhurst

A venue that provides individual health, wellbeing and relaxation. Specialising in Herbal Medicine, Holistic therapy, Reflexology, Massage and Shiatsu.