Gemma Mills

About Gemma

Wanting to help others improve their lives has been a passion throughout my life. My focus is based in holistic treatment to support and restore wellbeing in my clients.

Studying to become a Shiatsu practitioner has been something I have wanted to achieve since my teens, but life and family came first. It is wonderful to know you can still achieve dreams in your 40s!

Qualifying in Swedish massage and aromatherapy, later following on with holistic acupressure gave me a good start but Shiatsu is the treatment I have really wanted to study. It is exciting to finally have the time to study.

I am currently in my third year and hope to qualify later in 2024. I must complete 85 case studies treatments this year alone so will be offering reduced price sessions until I am fully qualified.

Shiatsu

Shiatsu is a traditional Japanese form of bodywork that uses gentle pressure and stretching to promote health and well-being. The word “shiatsu” means “finger pressure,” which is slightly misleading as I use thumb, palm, elbow and sometimes knees, to apply pressure. Shiatsu aims to bring the client gently back into balance on a physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual level by working energetically as well as physically.

Ki or Qi (or Chi in China) is our life force, flowing through our body in an endless loop. Sometimes, our Qi can meet resistance as it flows, throwing us out of balance. My job as a practitioner is to assist the body in releasing imbalances by reducing excess energy or nourishing deficiencies to allow Qi to flow freely again. Think Reiki with acupressure.

In a typical Shiatsu session, following a consultation, we will set an intention of what you want to achieve. You may want to relax and unwind, or you may prefer to have more energy, a clearer mind for making decisions or better health. We can work together to figure it out.

I aim to create a deep sense of relaxation and peace, allowing the body to release what no longer serves and start healing itself. This holistic approach treats the body and mind as interconnected, helping you achieve a harmonious state of well-being.

Shiatsu is usually performed on a futon or mat, always fully clothed, but can be carried out using a massage couch or chair. I will adapt the treatment to meet your needs.

Benefits of Shiatsu

Shiatsu offers a range of benefits that contribute to both physical and mental well-being. Here are some of the key advantages:

• Stress Relief: Shiatsu promotes relaxation and reduces stress levels by calming the nervous system and encouraging a state of deep tranquillity.
• Pain Reduction: It helps alleviate chronic pain, including back pain, headaches, and joint discomfort, through targeted pressure and improved circulation.
• Improved Circulation: The pressure techniques used in Shiatsu enhance blood flow, which boosts oxygen and nutrient delivery to cells and tissues.
• Enhanced Flexibility: By incorporating gentle stretches, Shiatsu can increase flexibility and range of motion in the muscles and joints.
• Boosted Immune System: Regular sessions may strengthen the immune system by promoting overall wellness and reducing stress.
• Energy Balance: Shiatsu aims to balance the body’s energy (Qi), which can lead to increased vitality and a greater sense of well-being.
• Better Sleep: The relaxation and stress-relief benefits of Shiatsu can improve sleep quality and help with insomnia.
• Emotional Well-Being: Shiatsu can have a positive impact on mental health by reducing anxiety, depression, and emotional tension.
• Digestive Health: It can improve digestive function by relieving stress and promoting relaxation, which supports overall digestive health.
• Holistic Healing: Shiatsu treats the body as a whole, addressing physical, emotional, and mental aspects to achieve a harmonious state of health.