Positive Lives last dealt with Shiatsu as a complementary therapy in 1998. Since then Teresa Hammond has joined the Staffordshire Buddies team of therapists and as well as offering reflexology and aromatherapy massage she is a fully qualified shiatsu practitioner.

Since she started to work at the Hanley centre last year, more and more people are taking advantage of this therapy and so we thought it would be a good idea to take another look at Shiatsu. Positive Lives asked Teresa to write a few words about Shiatsu. Here is what she wrote:

"Shiatsu originates from Japan. The word means finger pressure. The therapy is based on the same principles as acupuncture, however, finger, thumb and palm pressure are used instead of needles. As well as pressing on Shiatsu/Acupressure Points, the therapist also works with energy lines, which are known as meridians. The treatment stimulates the free flow of energy in this energy system. This promotes health and relaxation. Each Shiatsu point can be employed to help with several ailments. The therapy requires that you wear comfortable clothing, preferably of natural fibres such as cotton."

Theresa Hannon

Please remember to complete and return the recent questionnaire on Complimentary Therapies.

Some service users are unaware of the options available from Staffordshire Buddies, both in terms of the treatments themselves as well as where the therapies can be obtained.

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