Shiatsu is a physical therapy that supports and strengthens the body’s natural ability to heal and balance itself. Although shiatsu means ‘finger pressure’ in Japanese, a practitioner also uses touch, comfortable pressure and manipulative techniques to adjust the body’s physical structure and balance its energy flow. Like acupuncture, shiatsu stimulates the body’s vital energy (Chi) using the points and meridians of acupuncture as well as massaging the muscles, joints and circulation with strokes like kneading or effleurage. It is characterised by extensive use of pressure techniques over acupressure points often done using thumb or palms. Shiatsu does not use instruments or oils. During a session, individuals are fully clothed and traditionally lie on a futon mat placed on a floor.

This therapy is considered holistic because it attempts to treat the whole person instead of a specific medical complaint. For this reason it can be used in the treatment of a wide range of internal, musculoskeletal, and emotional conditions. It is thought to reduce muscle stiffness, stimulate the skin, aid digestion, and influence the nervous system. Shiatsu is used to treat a wide range of chronic conditions, such as headaches, PMS, digestive disorders, fatigue, insomnia, fibromyalgia, stress, anxiety, and muskuloskeletal pain, including low back, neck, and joint pain.

This therapy lasts for about 1 hour or 1½ hour; discounts available for multiple therapies, volounteers and Aurovilians. For more information or to make an appointment (book at least one day in advance), please contact directly by phone or Whatsapp Sara (+91 9443617308)  or write to serendipityauroville@gmail.com. For more information about activities, therapies and events in Serendipity, you can visit our facebook page.