Foundations of Shiatsu: Meridians, Ki Energy, and Japanese Bodywork Principles

Shiatsu is a Japanese bodywork practice rooted in the theoretical framework of Traditional Chinese and Japanese Medicine. To practice it intelligently — rather than simply following a sequence of pressure points — requires understanding the concepts of Ki energy flow, the meridian network, the Five Elements, and the tsubo points that shiatsu addresses. This theoretical understanding gives the practitioner the ability to observe, assess, and respond to what they find in the client, rather than applying a fixed protocol. By the end of this course you will be able to explain the concepts of Ki and its role in health and illness; describe the twelve primary meridians and their associated organ systems and emotional qualities; identify the main tsubo points used in foundational shiatsu practice; outline the principles of hara diagnosis; and describe the historical development of shiatsu from Chinese medicine roots through the work of Tokujiro Namikoshi and Shizuto Masunaga. What you will learn: - The concept of Ki: definitions, how Ki is described in movement, quality, and relative balance - The twelve primary meridians: pathway descriptions, organ associations, and key therapeutic qualities - The Five Element framework: elemental correspondences, seasonal associations, and their relevance to shiatsu diagnosis - Tsubo points: what they are, how they differ from acupuncture points, and how they are located - Hara diagnosis principles: reading the abdominal diagnostic map as an assessment tool - Historical development: Chinese antecedents, the work of the Namikoshi and Masunaga lineages, and contemporary shiatsu styles - Scope and context of shiatsu: professional regulation in various jurisdictions, evidence landscape, and ethical positioning - Contraindications and precautions: conditions requiring caution or medical referral The course is organized as eight reading modules, each pairing conceptual content with illustrated meridian charts described in text, case vignettes demonstrating how theory informs practice decisions, and reflection questions. A meridian and tsubo reference guide is provided as a study resource. This course is designed for massage therapists, complementary therapy students, and wellness practitioners who want a rigorous introduction to shiatsu theory. No prior knowledge of East Asian medicine is required. This course is educational; shiatsu certification, supervised hands-on training, and professional registration requirements vary significantly by country — consult the relevant authority before offering shiatsu services.