Many people these days spend a great deal of time, effort and money on keeping fit. Whether they go to the gym, take a regular long walk, run for miles or do the shopping by bicycle, the aim is to become physically ‘fitter'. While this is obviously an important part in looking after yourself, it can only be just that; one aspect of an overall strategy designed to improve health and well being. Often forgotten is that the body is not merely a physical organism. It is also, in a very real sense, an energetic one as well. From a Shiatsu perspective, even if you cover all the other aspects of physical training, good diet and sensible life-style decisions, ignoring the basic energetic system will result in imbalance, and lack of fitness. Indeed, over activity can cause as many energetic problems as it solves.
We all depend on free and efficient flow of energy in our bodies to keep our vital functions in good order. Inefficient or blocked flow of energy can result in tiredness, physical pain, digestive disorders and any number of other symptoms depending on which of the body's systems is most badly affected. According to traditional Chinese medicine, free flow of chi energy is so fundamental to health that virtually any condition can be described in terms of an imbalance or impediment to its flow.
Some people regulate and strengthen their own energy flows by practicing energetic exercises such as yoga, tai chi or qi gong. Others receive regular Shiatsu treatments. Although this cannot substitute for self help, a Shiatsu practitioner can assist by clearing blockages and redressing imbalances within the body, resulting in a stronger energetic structure, and helping to resist the onset of illness and even injury.
Obviously, you don't need to be a fitness fanatic to benefit from improved chi flow - we would all feel a great deal better for that.
