Rachel Nicolle, MRSS. (Cley)

Entry categories: Therapeutic Massage | Complementary & Alternative

SHIATSU is a Japanese therapeutic massage developed from extremely ancient traditional Chinese techniques.
It is a gentle, supportive massage which is received fully clad. As in Acupuncture the traditional energy channels are used. In Acupuncture needles are inserted into the energy channels; in Shiatsu pressure, usually with thumb or palm, is applied down these Traditional Chinese Medicine energy channels. Generally the whole body is treated. Shiatsu is always adapted to suit the needs of the individual. So it is suitable for everyone from the young, vigorous and athletic to the frail, elderly, extremely sick or for those in acute pain.
A session takes approximately 90 minutes. First the receiver tells the practitioner of any problems they may be experiencing. The massage lasts some 45-60 minutes, after which the receiver usually likes to rest for about 5-10 minutes. Finally they may wish to discuss the session and how they are feeling.

As in all Chinese Medicine, the aim is to bring the whole being, physical and emotional, into a state of balance by restoring the free flow of energy within the body. This means that not only can Shiatsu help with physical ailments, for example arthritis, backache or indigestion, but it is also very helpful with emotional or mental states, such as anxiety, bereavement and other stresses.
It is now recognised scientifically that the build up of stress impairs the function of the immune system. By relieving stress Shiatsu allows the immune system to reactivate and so a Shiatsu session can also be a preventative of disease.

Rachel is fully qualified Shiatsu Practitioner and a Shiatsu Society Registered Practitioner. In addition to her qualifying diploma she has a post-graduate diploma. She has attended several post-graduate seminars by the eminent international teachers Cliff Andrews and Pauline Sasaki as well as seminars by other well known practitioners.
In 2005 she successfully completed a two-part Certificate seminar on Cancer & Shiatsu given by Thea Bailey, one of the most experienced UK practitioners in this field, and has also gained the Certificate Course for Complementary Therapists at the Bristol Cancer Help Centre, now Penny Brohn Centre.
In addition to her private practice Rachel gives shiatsu regularly at The Norfolk Hospice, Snettisham, King's Lynn.

Rachel has a small, comfortable B&B, in Cley-next-the-Sea, North Norfolk - see Primrose Cottage on the Glaven Valley website.