Shiatsu is a contemporary therapy with roots in oriental medicine, translated literally as "finger pressure" in Japanese. Traditionally performed on the floor, the practitioner uses his/her own body weight while applying pressure to meridians (energy channels) and tsubo (pressure points) with palms, thumbs, and elbows. Shiatsu also involves gentle stretching and range of motion techniques.

Shiatsu aims to regulate our body's energy ("chi") which flows through the meridians, nourishing the blood, organs, muscles, glands, and nerves. An imbalance in this energy network can often lead to fatigue, pain and illness. Shiatsu treatments help to alleviate stress and to improve muscle and joint function. This deep yet gentle approach to health care can strengthen the body and improve overall wellness, offering many long-term benefits.

In addition to supporting balance and harmony in the body, Shiatsu may also assist with the following specific conditions:

• Stress and tension
• Back pain
• Headaches and neck pain
• Menstrual regularity and comfort, menopause
• Post-traumatic stress
• Depression, anxiety
• Insomnia, fatigue
• Pregnancy and childbirth
• General wellness and vitality

Curriculum

The 150 hour Curriculum includes:

• Anatomy and Physiology (18 hours)
• Yin and Yang and the five elements
• Energy (chi, qi) and the 14 meridians
• Techniques with the client in prone, supine, side, and sitting position
• Stretches
• Exercises, posture, and breathing techniques
• Contraindications
• Ethics

The 150-hour program has been divided into 5 modules. The first 3 modules (levels 1, 2 and 3) are largely focused on theory and hands on skills. The 4th and 5th modules are Shiatsu Sciences and Shiatsu Student Clinic respectively. Levels I and II have been scheduled for Summer 2008, see dates below.

Pre-requisites: None

This course is an introduction to Shiatsu - oriental acupressure massage that integrates the philosophy of Eastern Medicine with Western anatomy and physiology. Participants will master a basic Shiatsu treatment, using palm and thumb pressure, in the prone and supine positions.

Pre-requisites: Shiatsu Level I

This course is a continuation of Shiatsu I. Participants will learn a full Shiatsu treatment including advanced techniques such as arm and elbow pressure, specific meridian stretches, and side-lying position. There will be further discussion of the Meridian System and specific points.

These entry-level courses are ideal both for those with no prior experience and for professionals wishing to refresh or enhance their practice. Level 3 through 5 will be scheduled upon demand. The shortened format will appeal to those unable to initially make a substantial time commitment, and yet the modules provide educational "building-blocks" on which to expand as desired. These courses also provide a solid foundation for further studies in Zen Shiatsu.

Course Dates

Level 1: July 7 - 11, 2008
Level 2: July 14 - 18, 2008

Class Schedule

Monday - Friday, 9:00 - 4:00 daily (with 1 hour for lunch each day)

Instructors

Fernando Cabrera

Registered Shiatsu Therapist
Fernando has been practicing Zen Shiatsu (Masunaga style) since 1992 and is a member of the Shiatsu Therapy Association of BC. In addition to running his private practice in Kitsilano, Fernando offers shiatsu workshops throughout the province. He has instructed for the Shiatsu Program at Langara College, and presently teaches the shiatsu component of VSBM's Spa Therapy Program.

Fernando's unique style also incorporates techniques drawn from traditional Thai massage and Chi Nei Tsang (internal organ massage).

Pre-requisites:

No prior experience is required for Level I. Participants must receive at least one professional shiatsu treatment before the program.

VSBM Spa Therapy Program graduates are not required to take Shiatsu Level I nor the Sciences. Any participant with the equivalent prior education may also be awarded credits. Call for more information.

Tuition and Fees

Tuition (per level):
Text and supplies:
GST (5% as of January 2008):
TOTAL:

Text and Supplies

Course manuals and The Book of Shiatsu by Paul Lundberg are included. Students are required to supply their own linens. All other supplies will be provided.
Recommended text: Zen Shiatsu by Shizuto Masunaga.

Call for more details and registration information.

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what is shiatsu? curriculum course dates class schedule instructors pre-requisites tuition & fees