Can Shiatsu also be used in preparation for labour?
JA: Prior to labour shiatsu helps to prepare for and encourage labour, and in labour strengthens the contractions, relieves pain and can help with other difficulties if they occur. The partner can learn about connecting with the mother and techniques to use to encourage labour and to give pain relief. These are then tools that can be used to support the mother and significantly help her to cope with and have a positive experience of labour. MM: How about following the birth? JA: Shiatsu is hugely beneficial to aid recovery and breast-feeding and renew energy through what is often an exhausting time. MM: What is baby shiatsu? JA: Baby shiatsu is a wonderful way to connect with your baby. It uses the principles and understanding of shiatsu to add a new aspect to baby massage. By encouraging and developing the parent’s instinctive touch it deepens the bonding between parent and baby, and increases the baby’s trust and ability to explore its world. It can be taught to parents or given as a
