Shiatsu is a hands-on healing technique from Japan. Literally meaning “finger pressure,” the Shiatsu practitioner, known as a Shiatsupractor, uses his fingers, palms and thumbs to apply pressure to specific points in order to promote healing and wellness. Clients remain fully clothed and lie on a mat on the floor or a low table for the treatment, which lasts for one hour. Shiatsupractors typically follow the same Chinese five-element theory and meridians used in acupuncture. In Japan, only Shiatsupractors who have completed an intensive program of study and pass government exams to hold licensure may practice Shiatsu. In the United States, the requirements are not so stringent.

To practice Shiatsu in the U.S., you should either study at a massage school that offers courses in Shiatsu or enroll in a Shiatsu program. Most Shiatsu programs will include classes on anatomy, physiology, neurology, eastern healing philosophies, and meridians. Some Shiatsu programs can substitute for massage therapy school to qualify students as massage therapists, despite the fact that Shiatsu is usually considered a separate type of healing modality from massage therapy. Currently, the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia is working in conjunction with the National Certification Council for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine to achieve national standardized board certification for Shiatsupractors.

After completing your Shiatsu training, you can expect to find work in holistic health care clinics, doctor’s offices, spas, and wellness clinics. Shiatsupractors can also easily have their own practice. The prospects for those with a career as a Shiatsupractor are very good. The growth of jobs in both the health care field, and specifically careers with a focus on alternative healing, are expected to continue to rise at a faster-than-average rate.

Top Massage Therapy Programs

	Boca Beauty Academy of Massage - If you're interested in becoming a massage therapist, Boca Beauty Academy of Massage offers a fantastic program for students interested in this growing industry.
Cincinnati Cleveland	Center for Massage & Natural Health - The Center for Massage & Natural Health assists students in reaching their goal of becoming a massage therapist affordably and conveniently.
Boston Tampa Scottsdale	Cortiva Institute for Massage - Cortiva Institute for Massage prepares aspiring massage therapists with a rigorous program in the field of massage therapy. With locations available across the country, students can get prepared quickly.
	U.S. Career Institute - At the U.S. Career Institute, students will be taught alternative health treatments to assist people in feeling better. With a number of organizations hiring in various positions, don't pass up this opportunity to go back to school and start a great career.