There are many benefits of receiving Shiatsu and not just the ones you might expect from a massage, but the deeper, longer-lasting shifts that clients often notice in their bodies, minds, and daily lives.
Shiatsu blends gentle pressure, stretching, and movement, rooted in centuries of Eastern medical wisdom, while modern research is beginning to confirm what many clients already feel: Shiatsu supports pain relief, stress reduction, and improved wellbeing.
Here are some of the known benefits:
1. Deep Relaxation and Nervous System Reset
The slow, rhythmic nature of Shiatsu encourages the body to drop into a state of rest. Many clients describe leaving the session feeling “lighter” and more at ease.
A multi-country study in the UK, Austria, and Spain found that regular Shiatsu reduced stress levels, improved relaxation, and led to lifestyle changes that supported overall wellbeing, including better sleep and more balanced energy.
2. Relief from Aches, Pains, and Stiffness
Shiatsu works on muscles, joints, and connective tissue while also supporting the flow of energy through the body.
In a randomised controlled trial, participants with chronic low back pain who received Shiatsu reported significant improvements in both pain and daily function compared to those receiving standard care.
Another pilot study showed that people with fibromyalgia experienced meaningful reductions in pain intensity and improved mobility after a course of Shiatsu treatments.
3. Emotional Balance and Mental Clarity
Because Shiatsu works holistically, it can also help ease emotional tension. Many people notice feeling clearer, calmer, and better able to manage life’s challenges after sessions.
In the European observational study, clients reported not only physical improvements but also emotional resilience, improved mood, and reduced reliance on medication over a six-month period.
4. A Sense of Reconnection
One of the most beautiful things about Shiatsu is the way it can help you feel more “at home” in your own body. For some, this comes after a stressful period; for others, it’s a gentle reminder of their own inner strength. This quality of reconnection is often mentioned in research as a key reason clients choose to continue receiving Shiatsu, long after the initial symptoms have eased.
While these benefits are described individually, they often weave together, a more relaxed body supports a calmer mind, which in turn makes space for emotional ease and physical vitality.
If you’re curious to experience these benefits for yourself, book a session or get in touch via our contact page with any questions.