Shiatsu Therapy in Tuckahoe, NY & Bryant Park, NYC
Shiatsu is an ancient Japanese bodywork therapy that uses rhythmic finger, palm, and elbow pressure applied along the body’s meridian pathways to balance energy flow, release tension, and promote deep healing. At Elemental Acupuncture, Dr. Bethany Leddy, DACM, MSOM, trained in shiatsu during her Master’s program at Southwest Acupuncture College and has incorporated it into patient care for over 22 years. Shiatsu works on the same energetic principles as acupuncture but uses manual pressure rather than needles — making it an excellent option for patients who wish to experience TCM bodywork either alongside or in place of needle treatments. Call (646) 872-1181 or request an appointment today.
Request an AppointmentHow Shiatsu Works
The word “shiatsu” translates literally as “finger pressure” in Japanese. During a shiatsu session, Dr. Leddy applies sustained, rhythmic pressure to specific points and zones along the body’s meridian channels using her fingers, thumbs, palms, and elbows. This pressure stimulates the flow of qi and blood along the meridian pathways — releasing blockages, tonifying areas of deficiency, and restoring energetic balance throughout the body. The experience combines elements of deep-tissue massage and acupressure, producing a profound sense of physical and mental relaxation that many patients describe as unlike any massage they have received before.
Shiatsu is highly effective for stress and anxiety reduction, chronic pain management, musculoskeletal tension, fatigue, digestive disorders, and general wellness maintenance. Because shiatsu works along the same meridian channels used in acupuncture, it complements needle treatments beautifully and is often incorporated alongside tui na, cupping, and moxibustion in comprehensive treatment sessions at Elemental Acupuncture. To explore all available services, visit our Services page or view the conditions we treat.
Frequently Asked Questions — Shiatsu
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What is shiatsu and how does it differ from regular massage?
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Shiatsu is a Japanese therapeutic bodywork technique that applies rhythmic pressure along the body’s meridian pathways to balance qi and promote healing. Unlike Swedish massage which focuses on muscle relaxation through gliding strokes, shiatsu works on the energetic and structural systems of the body simultaneously — combining the principles of acupuncture with manual pressure.
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What does a shiatsu session feel like?
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Shiatsu produces a unique combination of deep physical release and profound mental relaxation. You remain clothed during treatment and lie on a comfortable table. Pressure varies from firm and sustained to rhythmic and flowing depending on the area being treated. Most patients feel deeply relaxed during and after their session.
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What conditions can shiatsu treat?
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Shiatsu is effective for stress and anxiety, chronic pain, musculoskeletal tension, fatigue, digestive disorders, headaches, insomnia, and general wellness maintenance. Its meridian-based approach means it supports overall systemic health as well as localized conditions.
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Is shiatsu suitable for people who are nervous about acupuncture needles?
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Yes. Shiatsu achieves many of the same therapeutic goals as acupuncture — working on the same meridian channels — without using any needles. It is an excellent entry point for patients curious about TCM who are not yet comfortable with needle treatment.
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Can shiatsu be combined with acupuncture in a single session?
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Yes. Dr. Leddy often incorporates shiatsu alongside acupuncture, tui na, cupping, or moxibustion as part of a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to your specific condition and needs.
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Is shiatsu safe during pregnancy?
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Shiatsu can be safely adapted for pregnant women with appropriate modifications. Dr. Leddy will assess your stage of pregnancy and health status before incorporating shiatsu, and will avoid certain points that are contraindicated during pregnancy.
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How do I schedule shiatsu at Elemental Acupuncture?
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Call (646) 872-1181 or request an appointment at our Tuckahoe or Bryant Park office. Shiatsu is available as part of an integrated treatment session with Dr. Leddy.
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