What is shiatsu?
Shiatsu, which means finger pressure in English, is a form of bodywork that originated in Japan. This method is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, which include stimulating and balancing the qi, or vital energy, in the body in order to avoid illness. This type of massage uses many different techniques. A shiatsu therapist may apply kneading, rotation, pressing, stretching, tapping and stretching techniques to improve the body's ability to heal itself. This type of therapy can be helpful for conditions such as:
- Headaches and migraines
- Neck, back and shoulder pain
- Arthritis
- Sciatica
- Repetitive strain injury
- Digestive disorders
- Fatigue
- Stress
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Postural problems
The following peak associations are available to shiatsu practitioners in Melbourne who want to boost their credentials and keep abreast of industry news and trends:
- Shiatsu Therapy Association of Australia (STAA)
- Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATMS)
- Massage Association of Australia (MAA)
- Australian Natural Therapists Association (ANTA)
Should you study shiatsu?
Learning the theoretical framework and practical application of shiatsu will enable you to address disharmony in the body and support its natural self-healing abilities. In addition to mastering the array of massage techniques used in shiatsu treatments, you must develop interpersonal skills to succeed in your career. Shiatsu therapists in Melbourne have these highly valued traits:
- Patient and always willing to go the extra mile to find the source of a client's health complaint
- Compassionate and empathetic, knowing that each person is going through a different level of pain and discomfort, which must be addressed appropriately
- Good listening skills and the ability to ask the right questions sensitively to understand the underlying cause of a client's issue and determine the right course of action
- Excellent communication skills enable them to explain to their clients what shiatsu treatment entails and its health benefits
If these personal attributes resonate with you, there's no doubt that you are destined to become a shiatsu therapist. Don't stop reading to find out what courses are available to you in Melbourne.
What are the course and study options for shiatsu in Melbourne?
Most massage schools in Melbourne offer shiatsu training, but their courses vary depending on the instructors' specialisation. Some massage courses include the study of basic shiatsu techniques as part of a general scope of the study. Others are more intensive, focussing primarily on the theory and practice of shiatsu.
Short online or weekend programs are great for gaining an overview of shiatsu therapy and learning its basic strokes. It gives you the chance to try out the modality before deciding whether or not it's something you want to pursue.
For you to qualify for membership in Australia's peak bodies for shiatsu practitioners, you'll certainly want to complete a nationally accredited diploma program. The course takes an average of 18 months to two years to finish, depending on the mode of study you chose. Most schools give students the option to study shiatsu online or on campus. By choosing a blended learning program, you can take advantage of both.
An extensive list of shiatsu courses in Melbourne and massage schools that provide them can be found at the top of the page. For more information about the curriculum of your choice or any questions you may have, feel free to contact the school of your choice.
What happens after you complete your shiatsu course in Melbourne?
Shiatsu graduates in Melbourne have a wide range of career options. Most of them pursue careers in spas, massage clinics, resort hotels, or on cruise ships. Since shiatsu, like other massage therapies, is in high demand throughout Australia, you can expect success no matter where you work. Along with following the code of ethics of the organisation that you belong to, you should also adhere to the statutory codes that apply to massage practitioners in Melbourne, which include:
- Health Records Act 2001
- Health Complaints Act 2016
- Working with Children Act 2005
- Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004
- Code of Conduct for General Health Services
There are many shiatsu practitioners who also run their own practices. Natural Therapy Pages can help you follow in their footsteps and enjoy the freedom of managing your own schedule and client base. You can gain more clients in Melbourne and around the country by having your business and services listed on the shiatsu practitioners listing page.
You can also use your qualification as a passport to pursue further education in the field of massage therapy or to meet the Continuing Education (CPE) requirements of your organisation to maintain your membership.
