Shiatsu Training – Level I

Continuing Education For Body Workers

Saturdays and Sundays
June 7 - July 27, 2008
(no classes on July 5 & 6)

100 Hour Course of study includes:

• Traditional Chinese Medicine Theory
• Shiatsu Meridian Theory and Therapy
• Zen Shiatsu Theory and Hands-on Techniques

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that balances an individual's qi, aiding in strengthening a client's vital healing force. Treatments are performed on a futon with a client fully clothed and can be relaxing or invigorating depending on the needs of the client.

This 6 Level program prepares students to practice a form of Shiatsu that utilizes the training and experience of advanced practitioners in the field. The style is essentially Zen Shiatsu blended with dynamic, fluid evolutions of that form. It is deeply informed by Five Element Theory and is based on a shift of the student’s worldview toward a holistic, contextualized Eastern perspective.

Students will learn to understand and apply basic Zen Shiatsu theory, gain the ability to assess and treat the Full Masunaga Meridians, and understand the relationship of the Full Masunaga Meridians to the meridians of Traditional Chinese Medicine. In addition, students learn the foundational theories of Traditional Chinese Medicine, functions of important acupoints, and Five Elements as a basis for ongoing development as practitioners.  

The program cultivates students’ awareness and application of Qi. Students learn to apply palpatory, stretching, and range of motion techniques with effective, sustainable body mechanics. Students learn business and communication skills for successful employment or self-employment, for self-awareness and successful relations with clients, and to be able to promote an appreciation for Zen Shiatsu with a variety of audiences. Students develop self-care and wellness, come to an understanding of their work within a wellness model, and develop awareness of the needs of diverse populations. Students explore other forms of Asian body work, Western modalities, and movement forms to develop breadth and longevity as practitioners.

A typical treatment protocol may involve stretches, joint rotations, and palming and thumb pressure along specific meridians. Shiatsu emphasizes the importance of the mind-body connection. Our course of study emphasizes the inherent power of a compassionate and knowledgeable touch. 

Shiatsu - Level I is the first in a series of 6 levels of courses in shiatsu. 

For more information, please contact Alex Holland, M.Ac., L.Ac. at
(520) 322-6330.