Koudo Shiatsu Edmonton
Experience Japanese-style bodywork and discover your path to healing and balance
Book Your Session
Experience Japanese-style bodywork and discover your path to healing and balance
Book Your SessionShiatsu is a Japanese manual therapy that uses sustained pressure on tsubos (pressure points) along the body's meridians to regulate energy flow, relieve tension, and calm the nervous system. Through proper depth of touch applied along the meridians, Shiatsu helps open and clear blocks in the body. These blocks manifest as stress, discomfort, pain, or dysfunction. Shiatsu is traditionally performed on a mat on the floor.
JR trained in Shiatsu at the Saskatoon Shiatsu Centre and is a member of the Natural Health Practitioners of Canada (NHPC). As a martial artist who first experienced shiatsu as a client, he discovered how it supported both his training and overall wellbeing - physically and mentally. This led him to study shiatsu, integrating the practice more fully with his ongoing judo and karate training. He approaches this work through the principle of jita kyoei - mutual welfare and benefit - bringing the same collaborative spirit from the dojo into his practice with clients. Through shiatsu, practitioner and client work together toward balance, regulation, and wellbeing.
Discover how Shiatsu can support your wellbeing
Tonificates and sedates tsubo along the body's meridians, allowing energy to flow freely throughout the body and reestablishing healthy movement patterns.
Creates a safe space to step away from life's stressors, allowing mind and body to relax and find resolution to frustrations and blocks.
Helps with muscular pain, chronic discomfort, and tension by clearing blocked energy channels and restoring natural body function.
Addresses stress, anxiety, and insomnia through gentle yet effective bodywork that calms the nervous system.
Can support digestive comfort and regularity through abdominal and back work that encourages healthy digestive movement.
Promotes general wellness and vitality by supporting the body's circulatory systems and natural balance.
What to expect during your Shiatsu session
Arrive in comfortable clothing that allows movement of the body. Shiatsu integrates pressure using finger, palms, and elbows with squeezing, kneading, and stretches to help the body release and open. No special preparation is needed, just an open mind and willingness to relax.
Each session begins with setting clear intentions. We'll discuss your goals and get a picture of what's currently happening in your body. This helps tailor the session to your specific needs.
A hara (abdominal) assessment gives us deeper insight into what's happening in your body and which meridians need balancing. This is followed by a full body treatment. When the body is fully integrated as one unit, the best results manifest.
Common questions about Shiatsu treatment
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy movement. Think yoga pants, sweatpants, or loose cotton clothing. Avoid jeans, restrictive clothing, and hardware such as metal buttons and zippers. You'll remain fully clothed during the treatment.
A typical Shiatsu session lasts 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time for consultation, assessment, and the full body treatment. First-time sessions may take slightly longer to discuss your health history and goals.
You may experience some tenderness in areas where there are blockages, but the pressure is always adjusted to your comfort level.
The number of sessions varies depending on your individual needs and goals. Some people come for occasional self-care, while others with chronic conditions may benefit from regular weekly or bi-weekly sessions. We'll discuss a treatment plan that works for you.
Shiatsu can help with many conditions including stress, muscular pain, sluggishness, insomnia, anxiety, stiffness, and headaches. If you have specific health concerns, please reach out to discuss whether Shiatsu is right for you.
While both involve manual therapy, Shiatsu works with the body's energy meridians and focuses on pressure points rather than muscle manipulation. It's performed fully clothed on a mat, and incorporates stretches and holds. Shiatsu takes a holistic approach to balancing the entire body system.
The following private insurance companies in Canada, which offer extended health benefit plans or accounts, may provide coverage for Shiatsu services:
There may be additional insurers that provide coverage for Shiatsu. Coverage details are subject to change based on insurance company policies. Shiatsu clients who have coverage for Shiatsu under one of these plans/accounts may be eligible for claim reimbursement. Clients should confirm coverage directly with their plan or account administrator prior to submitting a claim.
Ready to begin your healing journey? Reach out to schedule your session or ask any questions.