We are not only blessed to live in a world that offers us an abundance of tools to lead us towards a healthier and more harmonious lifestyle. But also because we are surrounded by incredible people dedicated so much to their chosen calling that they spend their lives sharing their wisdom with others.
One such person is Intuitive Shiatsu Master, Kumiko Kanayama. Raised in Hiroshima, a place that taught her that war was not good on either side, Kumiko learnt to ask, “How can we create peace in the world?”. After spending time with Kumiko, it is easy to see that she wholeheartedly believes that there are ways that we can live a more peaceful life. Her vehicle in doing that is Intuitive Shiatsu. But what exactly is Shiatsu?
To my research, Shiatsu was founded on principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the theory that energy moves through channels within the body known as meridians. Shiatsu is a dynamic body therapy that opens these channels. Stimulates circulation and flow of the lymphatic fluid and works on the autonomic nervous system, releasing toxins and muscle tension to create lasting harmony.
Depending on the condition treated. Shiatsu can use flowing stretches, acupressure, gentle rotations of limbs and joints, simple structural alignments, muscle release techniques, muscle stretching, and corrective exercises derived from Japan. Practitioners use non-invasive techniques, thumbs, palms, elbows, knees and feet, to restore energy balance. Strengthen the body’s natural healing abilities, and bring on deep relaxation.
“People feel so good after learning Shiatsu because it is part of self-care.”
Kumiko teaches us that Shiatsu is like Reiki in that you give and receive energy simultaneously. Yet, it goes beyond Reiki because the practitioner applies their hands to the pressure points and meridian energy channels.
“I want more people to know about Shiatsu. I want to see it well-known, like yoga and acupuncture. I want more people to be able to do it and receive it. They are opening their hearts, meridians, and pressure points to de-stress themselves and feel more centred. When you de-stress yourself, you can give so much to others. I believe more people need to connect, feel safe, and feel inner beauty. Then more people would be who they are.”
I believe that Shiatsu is one of those therapies that, once discovered, it is hard to conceive why the whole world is not practising it for themselves.
She was first introduced to Shiatsu by her Grandmother and later her uncle. Now a therapist to celebrities such as Nicole Kidman, Kumiko has spent over 40 years dedicated to her craft. She now sees clients and teaches from The Five Lights Center of Shiatsu, America’s oldest, longest-running Shiatsu foundation. Not only helping people heal but also raising awareness of what a necessary role Shiatsu can play in our lives.
Although she is now well respected within her industry, Kumiko didn’t always have the confidence she now has in herself and her craft. As a naturally shy woman, Kumiko wasn’t always sure about herself. Shiatsu’s energy is hard to see and feel, so she constantly checks in with herself and questions her abilities.
“But at some point, I had to stop questioning myself. I need to trust myself and the feedback I’ve been getting from my clients and students.” So I needed to trust myself to say, “I did good. I was able to help somebody release pain or uncomfortableness.” I needed to claim my true feelings about Shiatsu because Shiatsu connects so many people.”
It was through the training and guidance of her uncle that Kumiko accredits her opening her centre after relocating to the USA. Because she didn’t trust herself, he told her when it was time for her to take that step, and she did. She created a safe place where people could go beyond the five senses to feel the energy that each of us has.
“Our motto is the power of touch. The touch is touching not only others but also yourself, your heart, and others to connect. I truly believe the more people understand each other, the more peaceful the world can be. We don’t need to fight. Be happy. Be gentle. Be calm. Be nice.”
Every day, Kumiko gets to witness the benefits of Intuitive Shiatsu through her clients and students. It has brought her the understanding that, regardless of background, the energy of Shiatsu brings people together. It goes beyond language and can be practised on anyone.
Kumiko now lives with the hope that one day, her message will help the world recognise it too.
Fierce Truths Magazine
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- Fierce Truths Magazine
- Fierce Truths Magazine
- Fierce Truths Magazine
