Japanese therapeutic bodywork

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu uses comfortable pressure, gentle stretches and joint mobilisation to help your body self‑regulate, reduce pain, and find a steadier rhythm.

Origins

A brief history

Modern Shiatsu grew in Japan during the 20th century from older manual therapies and Anma massage. Schools led by practitioners such as Tokujiro Namikoshi and later Shizuto Masunaga shaped how we practice today. Contemporary Shiatsu draws on the meridian framework of Chinese Medicine, linking assessment and treatment to channels and acupoints.

Shizuto Masunaga and meridian chart
Shizuto Masunaga helped popularise meridian‑based approaches to Shiatsu.
Your session

What to expect

Sessions are unhurried and adapted to how you're feeling on the day.

01

Arrive & settle

A brief conversation about what brings you in — no lengthy forms, just a quiet check-in to orient the session.

02

Treatment

You'll lie comfortably on the table in loose clothing. Pressure is applied with palms, thumbs and forearms — rhythmic and responsive to your body.

03

Debrief & close

A short debrief with take-home breath cues or movement suggestions to extend the benefits between sessions.

45 min — focused area treatment · $105
60 min — full body treatment · $125
Common questions

Frequently asked

What should I wear to a Shiatsu session?

Loose, comfortable clothing. Treatments are fully clothed unless cupping or gua sha (scraping) is applied.

Is Shiatsu suitable for stress and pain?

Yes. Many clients come for stress, neck and shoulder tension, headaches, sleep, and digestion support.

How many sessions do I need?

Some feel change after one session; a short series (3–4) helps consolidate benefits.

Where are you located?

At Ping Ming Health, 7/1 Elizabeth St, Melbourne VIC 3000.

How do I book?

Call Ping Ming Health directly on (03) 9629 9920. No pre-payment required; you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your session.

Can I claim private health?

Shiatsu is covered by a number of private health insurers as of 2026, though cover varies by fund and policy. We recommend checking with your insurer before your first session to confirm your entitlements.

Shiatsu hand treatment
Get in touch

Ready to book?

Call Ping Ming Health directly to book with Jack. The clinic team will find a time that suits you.

(03) 9629 9920

Ping Ming Health · Floor 7, 1 Elizabeth St, Melbourne CBD

backtobreath.shiatsu@gmail.com
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