Definition

"Shi" means thumbs & fingers "atsu" means pressure. It was originated by the founder of shiatsu, Tokujiro Namikoshi Sensei. It is the application of manual and digital pressure to the skin with the aim of preventing and curing illness by stimulating the body's natural powers of recuperation, eliminating fatigue-producing elements, and promoting general good health.
- From “The Complete Book of Shiatsu Therapy" written by Toru Namikoshi"

Shiatsu technique refers to the use of thumbs, fingers and the palms of ones hands to apply pressure to particular sections on the surface of the body for the purpose of correcting the imbalances of the body, and for maintaining and promoting health. It is also a method contributing to the healing of specific illnesses."
- From "the Theory and Practice of Shiatsu" published by the Ministry of Health in Japan, 1957