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Yohaku - the space between - empty space in painting as in life is important
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Shiatsu

What is Shiatsu?

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese body therapy based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. The term "Shiatsu" literally means "finger pressure." This method uses pressure techniques, stretches, and mobilizations to promote balance in the body and activate its self-healing powers. Shiatsu is often used for relaxation, stress relief, and the treatment of various physical or mental ailments. The treatment takes place on a mat on the floor, and clients wear clean, comfortable clothing and socks. Shiatsu aims to harmonize the flow of energy in the body and enhance overall well-being.

What is Shiatsu? Video from the Swiss Shiatsu Society

Yohaku

Yohaku means the beauty of emptiness—the art of creating space for stillness and what truly matters by letting go of things. Our lives today are often too full to hear our inner voice. Yet, deep down, we know what is important to us, what the answers to our questions are, and what we need to stay healthy or regain our health. Shiatsu helps us to perceive this inner wisdom again.

Wie wirkt Shiatsu

Shiatsu is often used for...

  • Burnout

  • depression

  • exhaustion

  • Long-Covid

  • Decision-making difficulties

  • stress

  • fears

  • Back pain

  • Headache

  • Sleep disorders

  • Digestive problems

  • Menstrual cramps

  • Allergies

  • respiratory symptoms

  • Emotional blocks

Shiatsu promotes our intrinsic healing capacity and the balance between body, mind and soul.

Treatment process

Initial consultation

When you come to me for the first time, we'll start with an initial consultation to discuss your needs. Together, we'll define the goal of your Shiatsu therapy. Part of the initial consultation is a holistic assessment, which is conducted through both conversation and a physical examination. The assessment typically lasts 30-45 minutes. Afterward, your first Shiatsu treatment will begin immediately.

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Initial consultation

When you come to me for the first time, we'll start with an initial consultation to discuss your needs. Together, we'll define the goal of your Shiatsu therapy. Part of this initial consultation is a holistic assessment, which is conducted through both conversation and a physical examination. The assessment typically lasts 30-45 minutes. Afterward, your first Shiatsu treatment will begin immediately.

Shiatsu treatment

Every Shiatsu treatment begins with a brief consultation (approximately 5-10 minutes) to define the goal for the session, always keeping the holistic therapeutic objective in mind. Afterwards, you can change into fresh, comfortable clothing, and we'll begin on the futon. The treatment itself lasts approximately 45-50 minutes and includes stretches, rotations, and targeted acupressure along the meridians, focusing on specific acupuncture points. At the end, you can relax for a few minutes, and we'll conclude the treatment with a short debriefing to help integrate the benefits into your daily life.

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3 or 5 pack

Although a single treatment can already bring about significant changes and trigger positive effects, it is recommended to have Shiatsu treatments several times, ideally spaced one to two weeks apart. A package of three or five treatments is perfect for this.

Kinu Practice

Kinu - House for Holistic Medicine

Idastrasse 29

8003 Zurich

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The Kinu is a special place of tranquility. Treatments take place within a cocoon of cloths. It is a place of power, a place to feel good, enveloped, and safe.

About me

My name is Barbara, and I'm in my third and final year of Shiatsu studies at the Heilpraktikerschule Luzern (School of Naturopathy in Lucerne). With Shiatsu, I support you in challenging life situations with empathy and mindfulness, helping you improve your body awareness and interpret your body's signals. Together, we create the necessary (empty) space for relaxation and healing, so you can feel more comfortable and balanced again and find answers to your questions.

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Online booking & prices

Important: I am currently training to become a Shiatsu complementary therapist. My hourly rate is currently CHF 55 and will be adjusted as my training progresses. I am not yet recognized by health insurance companies. Please feel free to contact me with any questions.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here you'll find answers to frequently asked questions. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.

What do you wear during treatment?

Bitte bring bequeme frische Kleidung mit und frische Socken. Am besten eine lockere Jogging/Chill-Hose und ein lockeres T-shirt. Du hast Zeit und Raum Dich in Ruhe in der Praxis umzuziehen. 

Is Shiatsu painful?

Nein, Shiatsu ist nicht schmerzhaft. Es ist eine sanfte und einfühlsame Therapie. Dennoch können manche Punkte Druck-empfindlich reagieren. Sollte ein Punkt unangenehm sein, sind wir im Gespräch miteinander und wir passen die Behandlung an, so dass es für dich eine wohltuende Therapie ist.

Is Shiatsu recognized by health insurance companies?

Yes, Shiatsu is recognized by health insurance companies. Unfortunately, I am not yet officially recognized as I am still in training. Therefore, my rates are intentionally set low.

Can I cancel/rebook a treatment I have already booked?

Yes, you can cancel or reschedule a treatment at any time. Please let me know at least 48 hours in advance whenever possible.

Can Shiatsu also have unwanted side effects?

Shiatsu is a very gentle method. Nevertheless, Shiatsu can trigger and effect a number of things. Negative effects are rare and, if they occur, temporary. The deep relaxation induced by Shiatsu can initially lead to fatigue. Mild headaches or tension may also sometimes occur. The system is reacting and trying to return to balance.

Contact me

Barbara Spiegel

info@yohaku.ch

+41 78 882 7380

©2026 by Barbara Spiegel.

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