Shiatsu, which translates to “finger pressure” in Japanese, is a holistic bodywork technique that has gained global recognition for its ability to promote relaxation and well-being. Originating in Japan in the early 20th century, it incorporates elements of traditional Chinese medicine and Western anatomy to create a comprehensive healing experience.
To gain deeper insights into this fascinating therapy, I scheduled my own Shiatsu massage with Michael so that I could fully experience the technique I was setting out to learn more about. Michael was thoughtful, thorough, and sensitive in my assessment, where I discussed fatigue, chronic pain, and sleep issues. I found the session to be meditative, grounding, and deeply relaxing. The style of touch prompted an awareness of my body that helped me tune in to what it responded to and settled into an interoceptive awareness that for me can be hard to achieve. With chronic pain, tuning into my body can be uncomfortable, but the acupressure served as a tool, helping me feel rooted and secure while connecting with my body sensations without the typical distress.
I later sat down to talk with Michael, who is not only a professional Shiatsu practitioner and member of our wonderful massage staff but is also a dedicated educator of the practice. Michael completed his studies at the CenterPoint Massage and Shiatsu Therapy School and Clinic in 2006 and has since become a respected instructor, teaching Shiatsu at Northwestern Health Sciences University. He has been a valued member of The Wellness Center MN team since 2014 and brings a wealth of experience that extends far beyond Shiatsu alone, including Trigger Point, Myofascial Release, Swedish, Lymphatic Drainage, Pre & Post Natal, Japanese Abdominal Massage, Thai Bodywork, Tuina, Active Isolated Stretching, and Korean Hand Reflexology.
Before his journey into massage and Shiatsu, Michael was deeply involved in dance and drum corps—an early passion for movement that now informs his holistic approach to bodywork. With years of practice and teaching under his belt, Michael’s path shows how Shiatsu can be more than a healing modality; it can be a life-changing calling.
What is Shiatsu?
“Shiatsu means finger pressure. ‘Shi’ is finger, and ‘atsu’ is pressure,” Michael explains. “It’s about a hundred years old and originated in Japan in the 1920s. The technique is performed through clothing using pressure techniques along the body’s energy pathways, known as meridians.”
Michael has trained in two distinct styles of Shiatsu—one that focuses on the nervous system using Western anatomical principles and another rooted in traditional Chinese medicine, which works with Qi (vital energy) and meridians.
A Life-Changing Discovery
Michael’s own journey into Shiatsu began unexpectedly. As a former professional dancer, he suffered from debilitating panic attacks in his twenties. Searching for a holistic approach to healing, he attended an informational session on the modality. Though intrigued, he didn’t pursue it immediately.
“A year later, the school called me out of the blue, inviting me for a treatment,” he recalls. “That first session was mind-blowing—life-changing. It was emotional, and I realized my panic attacks were a sign that I wasn’t taking care of myself. The Chinese medicine aspect really resonated with me. Unlike the conventional approach of prescribing medication, Shiatsu felt deeply intuitive. It was a rescue.”
Training and Education
Michael trained at the Minnesota Center for Shiatsu Study in Minneapolis, completing a rigorous 500-hour program that laid the foundation for his current work. “It’s similar to massage therapy training,” he explains. “We studied basic anatomy, physiology, Chinese medical theory, hands-on techniques, and clinical practice where we worked on clients.”
A Typical Shiatsu Session
Each session begins with an initial intake to assess the client’s needs and areas of concern whether physical, mental, or both. “I start face down, focusing on the back, neck, and shoulders, since that’s where most people carry tension,” says Michael. “From there, I target the main issue while incorporating energy work to support overall balance.” Unlike traditional massages performed on a cushioned table, Shiatsu is often done on a mat on the floor. However, Michael practices on a lower, wider table, which allows him to integrate the same body mechanics as floor-based Shiatsu.
Who Can Benefit from Shiatsu?
I asked Michael about the typical profile of someone searching out Shiatsu and who can benefit. He told me “Many clients come in for anxiety, depression, or a need to feel more grounded,” says Michael. “It’s excellent for stress relief, sleep improvement, digestion, and alleviating neck and back pain. Since Chinese medicine works with internal organs, Shiatsu often includes abdominal work.” This kind of treatment is particularly beneficial for those seeking an alternative to acupuncture. “It’s similar in effect but without needles, making it a great option for people who are needle-averse.”
Michael finds educating in the classroom deeply rewarding. “It’s a transformational experience for students,” he shares. “Many are from healthcare backgrounds—nurses, social workers, psychologists, even doctors—who want a more holistic approach to healing. Others are simply individuals looking to step outside the Western medical paradigm.”
A Holistic Experience
It is a full-body practice. “It works best holistically, so I strive to cover the whole body, even if just with quick stretches,” Michael explains. “That’s how it’s traditionally practiced in Japan.” Though not intentionally emotional, Shiatsu can sometimes lead to deep emotional releases. “I’m not trying to evoke emotional responses, but something about the practice allows clients to open up at a deeper level.”
Shiatsu’s Lasting Impact
With its ability to calm the nervous system, release tension, and restore balance, Shiatsu offers a unique and powerful healing experience. For Michael, it was a personal rescue that turned into a lifelong passion—one that continues to transform both his life and the lives of those he treats and teaches.
If you’re seeking a gentle yet deeply effective way to reconnect with your body, manage stress, or support your overall well-being, Shiatsu may be exactly what you need. Whether you’re new to bodywork or looking to deepen your current wellness practices, Michael’s compassionate, skillful approach can help you feel more grounded, balanced, and at ease.
To learn more about how Shiatsu can be a part of your personal healing journey, we invite you to reach out to The Wellness Center MN to schedule a session with Michael. It’s an opportunity to experience this powerful practice firsthand—and to give your mind and body the care they deserve.
Written by Elizabeth Weiss, Client Services Specialist at The Wellness Center MN
