Moxibustion is a traditional Chinese medicine therapy that involves burning a small, cone-shaped amount of dried mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) on or near specific points on the body. The burning of the herb creates a gentle warmth that is believed to stimulate the flow of energy in the body and promote healing.

In a Shiatsu treatment your therapist may place a small amount of moxa on an acupuncture point and light it, or hold a moxa stick near the skin to create warmth and stimulate the flow of energy. The heat from the moxa can help to alleviate pain and tension, and promote relaxation and overall well-being.

There are two main types of moxibustion: direct and indirect. In direct moxibustion, a small cone of moxa is placed directly on the skin at the point and burned until it is extinguished. In indirect moxibustion, the moxa is formed into a stick or cigar-like shape and held above the skin or placed on top of a layer of ginger, garlic, or salt on the skin, so that the heat penetrates the skin without burning it.

Moxibustion is commonly used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, digestive issues, menstrual cramps, and respiratory problems. It is generally considered a safe and non-invasive therapy, although it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain skin conditions or sensitivities to smoke or strong smells.

Cupping is a therapy that is based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine. It involves placing glass, silicone, or plastic cups on the skin and creating a vacuum to draw the skin and underlying tissue into the cup. The suction created by the cups can help to release tension and promote the flow of energy and blood in the body, which is believed to be essential for maintaining health and balance.

In Traditional Chinese medicine, cupping is often used to address a variety of imbalances and conditions, including pain, stiffness, respiratory problems, digestive issues, and more. The placement of the cups will be determined by your Shiatsu practitioner based on your unique needs and symptoms.

Your practitioner may place the cups on specific areas of the body, such as the back or shoulders, and either leave them in place for a few minutes or move them along the skin to create a massage-like effect. The suction created by the cups can help to loosen muscles and fascia, relieve pain and stiffness, and promote overall relaxation and well-being.

Cupping therapy may leave marks on your back which should fade after a few days. It is generally considered a safe and non-invasive therapy, although it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain skin conditions or sensitivities.

Gua sha is a Traditional Chinese therapy that has been used for centuries to promote healing and circulation in the body. It involves scraping the skin with a smooth-edged tool, typically made of jade or other materials, to release tension and tightness in the muscles, promote lymphatic drainage, and boost the immune system. In Shiatsu, gua sha is often used as a complementary therapy to massage, acupressure, and other techniques.

Your practitioner will apply pressure to the skin using the tool, typically in long strokes along the muscles or meridians. The pressure creates a "sha" rash on the skin, which is a temporary redness or bruising that is believed to be a sign of stagnant blood and qi (energy) being released from the body. This rash usually disappears within a few days.

In Chinese medicine, gua sha is used to treat a variety of conditions, including pain, inflammation, respiratory problems, digestive issues, and more. It is believed that the technique helps to promote the flow of blood and qi in the body, which is essential for maintaining health and balance.

Gua sha is generally considered a safe and non-invasive therapy, although it may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain skin conditions or sensitivities.