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Pressure & Point Therapy

Shiatsu

Shiatsu — Japanese for 'finger pressure' — is a touch-based therapy that uses fingers, thumbs, and palms on the body's energy pathways to melt tension, ease pain, and restore deep calm.

See what we treat
Shiatsu therapist applying palm pressure along the back
Session length
45–90 min
Typical course
6–10 typical
Intensity
Moderate
Suitable for
All ages; you stay fully clothed and no oils are used

How it helps

  • Deep stress reduction and relaxation
  • Relief from headaches, migraines, and muscle pain
  • Improved digestion and respiratory function
  • Better sleep quality
  • Support for anxiety and emotional well-being
  • Aid in recovery from injuries and chronic conditions

Often chosen for

Tap a condition to see the full treatment guide.

What is Shiatsu?

In today's fast-paced world, stress and tension have become constant companions for many of us. Shiatsu, a traditional Japanese therapy, offers a calming and natural way back to balance through the power of touch.

The word Shiatsu means "finger pressure" in Japanese. The therapist applies gentle yet firm pressure with fingers, thumbs, and palms to specific points on the body. Rooted in the ancient principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, the technique works to unblock the body's energy pathways — the meridians — and to stimulate its natural healing abilities. It is completely non-invasive, promoting deep relaxation and better health by harmonising the flow of Qi throughout the body.

How it works

Shiatsu treats the whole person rather than a single symptom. As pressure moves along the meridians it releases physical and emotional tension, improves circulation and lymphatic flow, and supports immune function. The steady, rhythmic contact balances the nervous system — which is why sessions feel so calming — while the accompanying stretches enhance flexibility and posture. Mind, body, and spirit are addressed together, creating wellness that lasts beyond the session itself.

Why choose Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is safe and suitable for all ages and health conditions, and every treatment is tailored to your unique needs. Because it is given through clothing with no oils or lotions, it is perfect for those sensitive to fragrances or who prefer not to undress for therapy. Whether you seek relief from a specific ailment or simply want to nurture your body, Shiatsu provides a gentle yet powerful path to balance.

What a session looks like

  1. 1

    Settling in, fully clothed

    You lie on a comfortable mat or massage table in loose clothing — Shiatsu is worked through the clothes, with no oils or lotions needed.

  2. 2

    Pressure along the meridians

    The therapist applies gentle yet firm pressure with fingers, thumbs, and palms — sometimes elbows or knees — following the body's energy pathways point by point.

  3. 3

    Stretches and rotations

    Pressure work is combined with gentle stretches and joint rotations that open the body and invigorate the flow of energy.

  4. 4

    Deep rest to finish

    Sessions run forty-five to ninety minutes and close with quiet rest, leaving you deeply relaxed, rejuvenated, and balanced.

Shiatsu — common questions

Do I need to undress or use oils?+

No. Shiatsu is performed through comfortable clothing and uses no oils or lotions, which makes it ideal for anyone sensitive to fragrances.

Is Shiatsu safe for everyone?+

It is non-invasive and suitable for all ages and most health conditions. Treatments are customised to your unique needs, and pressure is always adapted to what your body can comfortably receive.

How is Shiatsu different from ordinary massage?+

Rather than rubbing muscles with oil, Shiatsu applies sustained pressure to specific points along the body's meridians, combined with stretches. It aims to rebalance energy flow as well as release physical tension.

How long is a session and how will I feel afterwards?+

Sessions usually last between 45 and 90 minutes. Most people leave feeling deeply relaxed and rebalanced, often sleeping noticeably better that night.

Related therapies

Experience Shiatsu at Thangajam Munril

Sessions are held at Thangajam Munril, our multidisciplinary centre in Dindigul, guided by trained KiLiK therapists.

Visit the centre