Shiatsu Massage (Seated and Floor-Based)
Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese hands-on therapy that uses acupressure, stretching and rhythmic movement to restore energy flow and release tension. It is delivered by John in two forms — a seated session for targeted relief, or a floor-based session for full-body relaxation. It is worked through clothing rather than with oils.
Signs this is the treatment you want
- Tension you would describe as held rather than injured
- Stress that has become physical
- You want bodywork but would rather stay clothed
- You are drawn to a holistic treatment over a purely mechanical one
- Physical and mental restlessness together, rather than one or the other
- You want either quick targeted relief or a full-body reset — both are available
What actually happens in a shiatsu session?
Rather than the gliding strokes of a Western massage, shiatsu works through acupressure — sustained pressure at specific points — combined with stretching and rhythmic movement of the limbs and torso.
It is rooted in traditional Japanese therapy and works holistically, addressing the body as a system rather than as a set of separate tight areas.
Seated or floor-based — which should I choose?
The seated session is the more focused of the two and suits targeted relief, particularly through the upper body. The floor-based session covers the whole body and is the one to choose for deeper, full-body relaxation.
If you have no strong preference, say what you are hoping to get out of it when you book and John will advise.
What is 'energy flow' and do I need to believe in it?
Shiatsu comes out of a tradition that describes its effects in terms of restoring energy flow through the body. You do not need to adopt that framework to benefit from the treatment.
What people consistently report is concrete enough: tension released, stress eased, and a sense of physical and mental harmony afterwards. Take the tradition or leave it — the hands-on work is the same either way.
What the session involves
- Acupressure at specific points, rather than gliding massage strokes
- Stretching and rhythmic movement through the body
- A choice of seated sessions for targeted relief or floor-based for full-body relaxation
- A holistic approach aimed at balance, not only at the tightest area
Not sure this is the right treatment?
Tell us what is going on and we will point you at the right one — including telling you honestly if shiatsu massage (sheet and floor) is not it.
Common concerns we work with here
- energy flow imbalance
- tension relief
- stress
- physical harmony
- mental harmony
- targeted relief
- full-body relaxation
- holistic balance
- well-being
Shiatsu Massage (sheet and floor) — your questions
What does shiatsu massage help with?
Tension, stress, and a sense of physical or mental imbalance. It is chosen for targeted relief or full-body relaxation depending on the format, and works holistically toward overall wellbeing rather than treating one area.
Do I need to undress for shiatsu?
No. Shiatsu is worked through clothing — wear something comfortable you can move and stretch in.
Who delivers the shiatsu sessions?
John. If you would like to ask about the treatment before booking, the contact option on this page reaches him.
How is it different from a remedial massage?
A remedial massage works the muscle tissue directly with oils and strokes. Shiatsu applies sustained pressure at points, with stretching and rhythmic movement, through clothing, and approaches the body as a whole system.
Further reading
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Or see all our treatments.
Last updated: 8 September 2026. Written by Niki Charnock, Naturopathic Nutritionist (CNM/ANP registered) and Injury Specialist. We advise on nutrition and lifestyle — we do not diagnose, and nothing here replaces care from your GP or specialist.