A Zen Shiatsu treatment is traditionally given on a futon on the floor. Loose, comfortable clothing of natural fibers are recommended.

The pressure in Zen Shiatsu is gentle but deep. While there may be certain meridians or points that are tender with pressure, the treatment doesn’t need to be painful.

During the first visit, you will go through an intake process to identify your goals and clarify your priorities in coming for shiatsu. Depending on your goals, this process can be either thorough or brief. (These forms are available online if you would like to fill them out ahead of time.) The first session is often scheduled for an additional 20 minutes at no extra cost to allow time for this process. Subsequent visits include a brief check in at the start to follow the progress between sessions.

How often should I come in?

It depends on what you are looking for. The number of treatments needed will vary depending on the acute or chronic natures of your imbalances. In some cases one treatment will be enough.

Weekly: I recommend a series of weekly or bi-weekly (every other week) treatments to address specific acute or chronic discomforts, conditions, and imbalances. At times, I might suggest a mid-week mini-tuneup ~ a short session to support any physical misalignments to help the treatment continue to hold till the following full session.

Monthly: Monthly treatments are a good way to maintain health and balance and continue to support the body's inherent wisdom in health as you move through your day to day. I recommend coming in monthly for those who have found improvement following weekly treatments and want to continue to support their health. These are also recommended for those who feel healthy in general who want to maintain strong health and vitality in their lives.

Seasonally: Seasonal treatments are a nice way to support your body and spirit during the change of weather and routines that come with the seasons. Individuals often like to mark the change in season with a gift of self-care.

Following a Shiatsu Session

Many people feel very relaxed, centered, and grounded after a shiatsu treatment. Others feel energized and ready to move forward with determination and efficient productivity. They may notice that their physical discomfort has lessened or disappeared.

Occasionally there may be a healing reaction caused by the release of toxins or emotions. It is possible that you will feel tired, or sore, have a headache or a “new” pain or even vivid dreams. These are all natural responses and will usually pass in anywhere from 3 - 24 hours.

Sometimes the results are more subtle and are not immediately noticeable. Often it takes more than one session to fully address a condition.

It is important to drink plenty of water after a session in order to fully facilitate the healing process.

"Shiatsu gave me immediate relief from my lower back pain. The results lasted longer with each treatment. Lucy suggested several exercises for me to use at home between sessions."