Our approach to teaching Shiatsu

We emphasise an intuitive approach to Shiatsu within a framework of traditional oriental medical theory. We see Shiatsu as both an art and a science, encouraging the student’s self-development and creativity, based on a firm foundation of theoretical and practical knowledge.

A major focus of the School is on the development of the intuitive awareness and sensitivity of the students, encouraging the listening in depth to another’s body and being. The student learns to diagnose and respond with the touch that meets the individuals needs, giving a Shiatsu treatment which is unique and personally tailored to bring about a deep level of healing.

At the Bristol School we have, over the last thirty years  developed a style we call Transformational and Relational Shiatsu. This, we believe is a real deepening of the wonderful gift given to us by the East and is rooted in both eastern notions of presence, compassion and Zen, as well as western notions of authenticity and integrity.

Transformational & Relational Shiatsu

Transformational and Relational Shiatsu is about a meeting at the core, facilitating an awakening in the client that allows for the deepest healing.

Transformational Shiatsu

At the core of our training is a focus on our own unfolding self-awareness and resulting personal transformation. We consider personal transformation integral to the depth and quality of the Shiatsu we provide. It is our ability to meet and sit with ourselves in the authentic truth of the moment that allows us, in Shiatsu, to be present with another.

Relational Shiatsu

Honours that healing arises from the relationship between giver and receiver. It is in the quality of our touch and our presence that Shiatsu can be experienced as truly powerful.

Our Shiatsu becomes profound when we are fully present, in an authentic relationship with both ourselves and the receiver. Being present and alive to both, we enter the mystery and awaken to our deepest intuitive wisdom. In this presence, Shiatsu is more a state of being than something we do to another. Instead of giving a treatment, we are engaged — through touch — in meeting, honouring, challenging and witnessing.

Where They Meet

In this integrated practice, ill health, pain and one's personal wounds can be seen as gateways into aliveness and a deep sense of well-being. There is an invitation for the receiver to open to their deepest selves and reconnect with their innate being in a held space.