Shiatsu training: Providers, information, frequently asked questions, experiences

To become a Zen Shiatsu therapist, you should be able to take at least three years. The training is usually modular or part-time and comprises - depending on the school - approx. 600 hours of attendance time.

In order to obtain the industry certificate from the OdA KT, you also need the Tronc Commun (vocational and social science training) and a degree in medical basics (another 340 hours of classroom training), as well as an internship and self-study.

The possibilities of continuing education, further training in Shiatsu are:

• Specialization courses such as Zen communication, spiral dynamic techniques in Shiatsu, (myo)fascial techniques, therapeutic accompaniment of long-term processes, Meridian Yoga - accompanying groups etc.
• "Tronc Commun"
• Complementary therapy industry certificate
• Advanced Federal Professional Examination (AFPE) Complementary Therapist with Federal Diploma

After training as a Shiatsu therapist, you can carry out the following activities:

• Apply gentle pressure to the energy channels with your thumbs, elbows and knees in flowing movements
• Apply additional techniques such as joint rotations or stretches as required
• Release energetic blockages and congestion
• Stimulation of the natural self-regulating forces

The Shiatsu training costs vary greatly depending on the scope and degree. The range is between CHF 500 and CHF 20,000. Additional costs may be incurred for teaching materials, training documents, etc. Ask the provider of your choice what costs you will incur.

Shiatsu is a Japanese form of therapy that has been supplemented and perfected over time with Chinese medicine and philosophy. The basic elements of this manual therapy can be learned in a seminar lasting several days, which can then be used with friends or family, or for professional work in the form of a course lasting several years. The basic course usually takes place over three weekends or as an intensive seminar. The Shiatsu training course lasts around three years. Zen Shiatsu is usually taught, a further development that incorporates Western physiology and psychology as well as stretching, rotation, contractions of the hands, feet, knees and elbows and is supplemented with philosophical approaches from Zen Buddhism.

During the Shiatsu massage training, it may be important to obtain the industry certificate in complementary therapy. In addition to the training in the method, an internship and a so-called "Tronc Commun" (natural science, social science and professional basics) must be completed. This good and recognized professional qualification later ensures access to the Advanced Federal Professional Examination (AFPE).

The Shiatsu healing massage promotes blood circulation, relaxes deeply and intensively, regenerates the body and makes painful areas soft and supple. The treatment helps our body to let go physically and mentally and to release tension that can lead to back pain. Learning shiatsu massage is definitely worthwhile if you want to help other people relax and take care of their health.

Shiatsu therapy is a form of body therapy developed in Japan that originated from the traditional Chinese massage Tuina. Literally translated, Shiatsu means "finger pressure". The targeted pressure on certain "energy points" activates the blocked life energy "Chi" - better known to us as "life spirits".

In most cases, you do not need to fulfill any prerequisites for basic Shiatsu training courses. There are usually only a few conditions for a certificate course:

• Some schools stipulate a minimum age of 21 years
• Upper-secondary level qualification (vocational qualification)
• Independence, personal responsibility, sociability

The content of the Shiatsu training depends very much on the respective school, but often includes the following areas:

• Basics: i.e. origin and development, basic principles with the life energy Qi, meridians, further ethics, professional knowledge and differentiation from massage, acupressure etc.
• Shiatsu techniques: Pressure techniques, stretches, rotations, Shiatsu in prone, back, side and sitting positions, awareness training
• Meridian systems
• Treatment setup and structure
• Self-awareness
• Specializations, for example Shiatsu for pregnant women, children, palliative care, etc.

As each educational institution follows its own concepts when designing the content, there may be differences. To find out which specific topics are covered, we recommend contacting the school directly using our contact form - it's quick, easy and non-binding.

Shiatsu is primarily known for its relaxing effect. The mind, psyche and soul are supported and brought into balance. Deep breaths can be heard again and again - an unmistakable sign of relaxation. Learning Shiatsu is worthwhile because it touches the whole person if you allow yourself to get involved.

Zen Shiatsu refers to a particular style of Shiatsu that was founded by Dr. Shizuto Masunaga and is the most widespread in the West. Masunaga was a Japanese shiatsu therapist and professor of Western psychology. Those who practise according to him practise the Zen Shiatsu style according to Masunaga.