Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork therapy that uses comfortable pressure, stretches and gentle mobilisation—often through clothing on a futon or couch. People commonly use shiatsu to unwind, manage stress and ease muscular tension.

Sessions are typically tailored, combining hands-on work with breathing guidance and simple self-care suggestions.

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Shiatsu is a hands-on bodywork therapy that uses pressure (often with thumbs or palms), gentle stretches and joint mobilisation. Many clients experience shiatsu as both physical and calming, with an emphasis on relaxation and whole-body balance.

What happens in a shiatsu session?

You usually remain clothed. The practitioner may work with you lying on a futon or couch and will apply pressure to different areas, often combining this with stretches or guided movement. The intensity should be adapted to your comfort, and you should be able to give feedback throughout.

What can shiatsu be used for?

Muscle tension and stiffness
Stress and relaxation
Sleep support when stress is a factor
Headache support where tension patterns contribute

Safety and suitability

Shiatsu is generally low risk when provided by a trained practitioner. Tell your therapist if you are pregnant, have osteoporosis, a recent injury, severe pain, or any medical condition that could affect safe pressure or stretching. Seek medical advice for severe, new or worsening symptoms.

History of Shiatsu

Shiatsu developed in Japan and was influenced by traditional bodywork and pressure techniques. Over the 20th century it became formalised into different schools and teaching styles, combining pressure work with stretching and whole-body assessment.

In the UK today, shiatsu is commonly offered as a complementary therapy focused on relaxation, tension relief and wellbeing support.

Typical conditions that use Shiatsu

Condition	Evidence	Notes
Muscle tension	limited	Common use; treat as supportive bodywork.
Stress	limited	Relaxation-focused; outcomes vary.
Back pain (upper)	moderate	Used for upper back pain.
Chronic pain	moderate	Used for low back pain.
Headaches	moderate	Used for tension headache.
Hip pain	moderate	Used for hip pain.
Insomnia	limited	May support relaxation and switching off.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)	moderate	Used for IBS symptoms.
Joint pain	moderate	Used for joint pain.
Knee pain	moderate	Used for knee pain.
Menopause symptoms	moderate	Used for menopausal support.
Menstrual cramps / painful periods	moderate	Used for menstrual pain.
Migraine support	moderate	Used for migraine management.
Neck pain	limited	May help with comfort and mobility; ensure appropriate screening.
Postural pain	moderate	Used for postural pain.
Sciatica	moderate	Used for sciatica support.
Shoulder pain	moderate	Used for shoulder pain.
Tension headaches	limited	Supportive where tension contributes.
TMJ / jaw tension	moderate	Used for TMJ/jaw tension.
Acid reflux / heartburn support	limited	Used for digestive discomfort.
Bloating	limited	Used for bloating relief.
Endometriosis support (adjunct)	limited	Used for endometriosis discomfort.
Fatigue	limited	Used for fatigue.
Gut-brain stress symptoms	limited	Used for gut-brain stress symptoms.
Indigestion / dyspepsia	limited	Used for indigestion.
Low energy	limited	Used for low energy.
Low mood	limited	Used for low mood.
Muscle cramps	limited	Used for muscle cramps.
Nausea support	limited	Used for nausea.
Non-restorative sleep	limited	Used for sleep quality.
Pelvic pain	limited	Used for pelvic pain.
Postnatal emotional support	limited	Used in postnatal support.
Pregnancy anxiety support	limited	Used in pregnancy support.
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)	limited	Used for PMS.

Frequently asked questions

What clothing is best for Shiatsu?

Comfortable, loose clothing that allows movement; sessions are performed through clothes.

Is pressure strong?

Pressure is adjusted to comfort and can be light or deeper as agreed.

Can Shiatsu be done on a couch?

Yes. It can be offered on a futon or a couch depending on access and comfort.