Shiatsu

Shiatsu (指 ) or “finger pressure” in Japanese is a holistic modality that helps you return to balance – a state in which you can maintain your health and prevent dis-ease from arising.

Acupressure points alleviate specific ailments and help to bring about subtle to profound transformations. 

What To Expect|Shiatsu & Acupressure Explained|Shiatsu College

What To Expect

If your energy (Ki) can move then the body is more likely to return to balance, creating the conditions for positive health. So this is my aim for each session: to move Ki and help you relax.

Shiatsu involves a blend of acupressure, gentle stretches, rotations and breathwork. Wearing loose fitting clothes, you lie on a futon or massage table.

Shiatsu can be enjoyed on a regular basis to help maintain health and to prevent illness and disease from arising. Regular services, quality fuel and taking good care protects your car from breakdowns. People are the same!

Many people find Shiatsu to be a deeply relaxing experience that can have long-lasting positive effects on the mind and body.

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“I want to share my experience because it had a remarkable effect on my body. First I would say I just felt…reaaally relaxed.”

“We were in nature, beautiful places. But before the last treatment, my back was really painful and breathing also a little bit. Sarah proposed to try something… this time I was on a chair and she gave me shiatsu for 30 minutes or more?? It was in August 2017 and it is now January 2018 I don’t feel the pain again so far.”

Marisca

Environmental Consultant

What people are saying

“I go to Sarah regularly for shiatsu treatments. I feel like the quality of my sleep has improved. To begin with Sarah worked with me intuitively; a surprising result was being re-connected to my feet and hands. My circulation has improved and I’m looking forward to not wearing double socks over the winter!”

“I can heartily recommend shiatsu with Sarah if you are looking for healing and have tried and failed with other therapies.”

Kevin M

Business Consultant

“Every session is different & i am welcomed with warmth, love & a smile in her home practice. She is honest & non-judgmental which gives me a safe space to be in the present moment. Regular Shiatsu sessions has helped to introduce a positive outlook in life, given me vitality & being more health conscious in myself.”

“She is a gift to us as she uses her beautiful heart & energy to channel through her hands & reawakens & reconnects key points in my heart, body & mind.”

Harite C. Wellness Consultant

“Sarah is warm and inviting and the treatments are super relaxing. Shiatsu has really helped my energy levels – as someone who had burnout and was used to living a really hectic lifestyle, I really struggled to maintain my energy and would often have huge energy crashes.”

“Now that I’ve introduced regular shiatsu treatments into my life, not only are my energy levels more stable and much better than they have been in ages, but I’ve also learned to listen to my body more and have a more balanced approach to life and more compassion towards myself.”

Mimi M, Finance Analyst

Shiatsu & Acupressure Explained

Shiatsu uses relaxed body weight, applied mainly with the hands, to stimulate the body’s own self-healing ability. This is an ability we all have – and now you can experience how it feels to activate it! 

Shiatsu can effectively treat a range of musculo-skeletal issues as well as psycho-emotional challenges. Acupressure points are integrated into each session to help bring relief from specific ailments.

I am  experienced in giving shiatsu to people with addictions including burnout (tendency to overwork), drugs and alcohol.

New developments in modern science are increasingly able to show how this kind of energy medicine works, from a Western medicine perspective.

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The Shiatsu College

It takes three years of training to qualify for the Zen Shiatsu Professional Diploma. This includes both practical and written assessments, and I also worked in UK social change charity voluntarily for six months to pursue my interest in Shiatsu for addictive behaviours.

The Diploma teaches knowledge of several east Asian ‘models’ including Five Element Theory, Holistic Acupressure, Traditional Chinese Medicine and Zen Shiatsu. This means I have an in-depth understanding of energy- and body-work and can integrate different approaches and methods of diagnosis for my clients.

I also use a range of practices from Eastern Medicine to support my own health.

The Shiatsu College is one of the most well respected Shiatsu schools in the world. Founded in 1986, the College is dedicated to the exploration and learning of Shiatsu, energy work, Qigong and associated studies.

The lineage I practice stems directly from the Japanese tradition of Shiatsu pioneers Pauline Sasaki and Shizuto Masunaga; and the College’s Founder teachers have an international reputation.

The Shiatsu Practitioner Diploma is unique in the UK in being nationally accredited with Laser Learning Awards, as well as being fully ratified by the Shiatsu Society (UK).

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Shiatsu College
Shiatsu College

About Me

I founded SJA Holistics to help people get well, feel great, and stay well using the power of practices derived from Eastern Medicine including Shiatsu, Reiki, Acupressure and Qi Gong.

For over a decade I’ve worked with Ki and have first-hand experience of how energy- and body-work can lead to positive health. Working with the energy body as well as the physical can bring profound changes to mental, emotional and physical issues.

After completing three years of study for the Professional Shiatsu Diploma, I honed my experience working voluntarily for six months in a national UK charity giving Shiatsu to people recovering from substance misuse.

It is my mission to help you recognise your own self-healing ability and to empower you with the skills and knowledge you need to dramatically improve your self-care.

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My Approach

We create your current health picture. Then we get clear on your goals so that we are aligned from the outset. This makes it easier to monitor progress.

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Intelligent Energy

Every one of us has a universal energy, also known as lifeforce, chi, prana and Ki, that underpins our whole existence, and within that, our health. Stimulating the flow of Ki is how you can get well, feel great and stay well.

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The warm up.... *A very short Do-In practice After a really bad night's sleep, when...

Repost from @repairing_the_nervous_system It's so spot on.... I pick up my trainings interchangeably, as I need them: Shiatsu (Zen, Multidimensional, Movement) Usui Reiki Qigong TRE Yoga Physical exercise Nature time There is no specific pattern. A daily Qigong practice probably means Qigong is the most frequent. If you're a holistic Practitioner, how does your self-care vary? What practices are your go-to's? Though recently with Covid, I had no energy for it. Do-In was too much for my body to receive (tapping along energy meridians) As I was just discussing with @dawnoei, mostly for 10 days all I could do was place hands on chest and bring awareness to the pathogen, breathe in healing light and visualise a pathway for the pathogen to leave along the Large Intestine meridian. Sometimes I worked LI4. (This approach was inspired by @malikameddings from #newenergyworkntrainings) I started taking homeopathic remedies from @family_homeopath_zoescanlan last Thursday. It feels good to notice their subtle yet powerful effects. I'm back to morning Qigong - how could I not practice, with these kind of jungle views!? So many different colourful birds flitting around, and birds of prey looming. It's jaw droppingly beautiful. 🌴🌴🌴 . . . #junglelife #southgoa #winterlife

Repost from @repairing_the_nervous_system It's so spot on.... I pick up my trainings interchangeably, as I...

A whirlwind week in Goa ... A brief summary! Landed in Goa, exhausted from the tail end of Covid. Quickly caught a cold. Rescued my precious moped (thanks James, Nat and Dave) and my possessions (gracias @inma_marmol) Moved into a new apartment, with unexpectedly stunning views of the Ghats. The tranquil Haven I always need. Ate my fav pumpkin thali 🤟 And the best sushi from @endiapan_india.jp Hung out with cows on the beach. Got moped spruced up. Took old girl for a ride today down to Galgibag. Celebrated a birthday in the revamped Love Bites. Caught up with some fab faces. Got published in Australian media for the first time, writing about Shiatsu and longevity. The topic has been on my mind - it's now 7 years since I found Shiatsu (or did it find me?!). ☯️ And resumed my space on the beach, absorbing some much needed rays while slipping into a more receptive vibe, after the doing-ness of the week. ........ Get your tkt booked!!! @james.dee.clayton @izadora.douglas.claydon @poggymusic1133 @nxmilr @acwabroad1 @viktorxavez @mollyevestev 🌴🌞🔥 Goa is waiting for you! . . . . . #lovegoa #southgoa #beachlife #winterhome

A whirlwind week in Goa ... A brief summary! Landed in Goa, exhausted from the...

One year on..... Safely landed in Goa. Sleeping, settling into the land, and trying to recover from the tail end of a month of illness thanks to My First Cvid! Finally, it took me down! And today, taking it very easy with beach and sea time, as I reflect on the horrendous experience that unfolded this day last year on Koh Pan Ghan by a so-called friend. A year on and things are somehow still hard. Just forget about it and move on.....yep, I'm trying. Unfortunately it's not that easy. Triggers pop up in the most unexpected ways. But for every vile unhinged manipulative narc, there are thankfully many good eggs. Though i suspect some haven't been able to see past his smear campaign - there are plenty who know the real story and what I went through last December. It's difficult events that highlight who the real friends are - the ones who check in, whose concern is genuine, whose actions say it all. Being a human isn't easy, but consistent authentic kindness really does help to smooth the ride. If you know, you know. Or perhaps it's easier to look the other way and make your own excuses. 🙏 My Shiatsu, Reiki and Qigong practices have taken on new forms - like reassuring presences that I can "just do" when my head hurts too much to think. 🙏 To all those I only caught glimpses of this summer, or who I didn't get to see though we tried (!), I'm sorry and really looking forward to seeing you next year. I hope to be more sociable. 🙏 More incoming on my plans for this Goa season. It's easy to get swept up in the greasy frenetic wheels of the "wellness" world here. Spirituality is Big Business. And what perfect place to study: in an authentic Eastern setting. Hmmmm. Once again, there is little on offer that resonates with me. Im going to be discovering Winter, the season of introspection. The essential piece of the annual cycle that asks us to be slower, still, to look inward. Searching within is perhaps the perfect antidote to Goa's very externally focused 'buy your quick fix path to peace and contentment'. 🙏 Pls get in touch if you're coming to Goa and I'll make an effort to meet. Great to hear from a few already ... 🌴

One year on..... Safely landed in Goa. Sleeping, settling into the land, and trying to...

Shiatsu swapping.... Much needed compassionate touch, and on a Friday evening too. Perfect end of week relax! Thank you @tanyapriceshiatsu really enjoyed being able to let go of everything for an hour and reconnect within. More on @practitionersgarden about setting up a swap and why to do so! (So many reasons!) Find the story in the Highlights on that channel, see Substack. Tanya is based at BodyMatters in Steyning. ☯️ . . . . . .

Shiatsu swapping.... Much needed compassionate touch, and on a Friday evening too. Perfect end of...

Seasonal change.... Greens and blues Plus reds and oranges. Earth Element giving way to Metal. But I was still enjoying summer (Fire) and early autumn (Earth)! Feeling the grief (Metal) of longing for summer again, long days and so much light. Five Element Cycle gives us clues about seasonal energies and how we can move with them. Plus it makes so much sense, doesn't it?! Metal is about refinement, letting go of impurities/what we dont need, so that we go into winter hibernation carrying only what we really need to get us through the cold months, and restore us ready for spring (Wood) growth. As I begin packing my bags for India - I'm wondering what my essentials are? Books, clothes, candles, music, photos, thoughts, people and memories of the past summer. What do I need to take with me? What do we need for winter (mine will be another tropical one!)? 🔥🍂🍄 . . . . . . . .#sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #mobilepractitioner #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #qigong #holistic #holisticcoach

Seasonal change.... Greens and blues Plus reds and oranges. Earth Element giving way to Metal....

Apple picking, mushroom hunting and walking ... Autumn days, best spent with old friends and dogs, in the Welsh mountains. Prize winning veggies and bottles of red. A far cry from the sweaty clubs and late nights of our formative years #bristol #goldenyears #oldfriends 🎃 💚 🐉 . . . . .. .#sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #mobilepractitioner #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #qigong #holistic #holisticcoach

Apple picking, mushroom hunting and walking ... Autumn days, best spent with old friends and...

Managing mental health ... Looks like: Greens and blues 💚💙 Movement Trees Being outside The Downs As a daily practice. The mysterious circle of trees Chanctonbury Ring is full of myth and legend, which always adds another dimension to my walks on the Downs! Awareness days are nice reminders but pointless unless you're integrating practices regularly. It takes a while to figure out what you need. And even longer to make them non-negotiables. I get depleted rapidly these days if I dont get nature and alone time (ideally together) for at least a few days each week. 🌱 Still learning and growing also! 🌱 Looking forward to a Shiatsu swap with @hanastarace tomorrow - which is also a key part of how I keep balanced and feeling good. . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #mobilepractitioner #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #qigong #holistic #holisticcoach

Managing mental health ... Looks like: Greens and blues 💚💙 Movement Trees Being outside The...

Life as a desk-bound worker... A photo from a happy day, when I was leading PR for #solarcentury a job I really loved given the cause but wow did it come with a lot of stress at times. When launching one of Kenyas largest solar projects, I experienced heart palpitations for about 2 months. They continued even after the launch while I was on holiday. Heart shudders every few minutes. And I was only 35, and otherwise fit and healthy. Launching today: Im pleased to see Women in PR launching a campaign today on World Mental Health Awareness Day, to raise awareness of burnout in PR world. I left corporate PR in 2019 after a particularly toxic incident at a global PR company (one that supposedly had People as one of its core values) when i was contracting. It catalysed an ending that though sad, made space for my holistic work, and allowed time out that I desperately needed, to rebalance and get a handle on my nervous system. ☯️ I now use my holistic skills and training to keep me feeling balanced, grounded and able to get back into the flow of my life, when balance is lost or I'm getting close to tank empty. And the more energy work I'm doing, the more sensitive I'm becoming, which brings new challenges - like becoming unable to spend long in cities. A day in Brighton on Sunday totally wiped me out. I'm not exaggerating! ☯️ More info: WiPR launches 'Speak Out! Don't Burn Out! Campaign on World Mental Health Awareness Day Today, on World Mental Health Awareness Day, WiPR has launched its latest campaign “Speak Out! Don’t Burnout!’ to shine a light on the myriad of issues that see women in the PR industry face burnout.  Survey data shows the scale of the problem: 92% of women said that unlike other industries, the PR industry is 24/7 profession, which makes it harder to switch off in the evenings or weekends.  60% of those who currently feel stressed/anxious or burnt out said they find it difficult to talk about in the workplace. 66% of senior PR women have considered quitting their job due to burnout. Of those who have experienced burnout in the last 12 months, only 11% say they have been completely supported. . #worldmentalhealthawarenessday

Life as a desk-bound worker... A photo from a happy day, when I was leading...

The Shiatsu Greats Anyone in Shiatsu world will be familiar with Carola Beresford-Cook! As a deepening of my Shiatsu studies, I'm going to be studying alongside Carola and various Shiatsu practitioners around the world in "A Year with Carola" and Im pretty excited about it ! I began my Shiatsu training 7 years ago and became a certified Practitioner 4 years ago. It's been a wild ride since then! Now feels like the perfect time to reinforce my knowledge and add to it. I'll be sharing knowledge here as I go, for Practitioners, and explaining the benefit for my clients. Chinese Medicine, and Shiatsu as a part of that, is so vast. It can be a lifetime exploration. There is no end to this journey, which means we can never know enough. It's also good to recognise what you DO know as the vastness of TCM can feel overwhelming. As well as gaining new knowledge, the learnings become embedded within, and the experiential understanding is felt, and appreciated as a feeling-knowing. I love how Shiatsu isn't all about the head. The wisdom of the body is just as important. ☯️ Self-Shiatsu has been a big part of my Shiatsu journey ever since I found myself as a lone Practitioner for the whole pandemic in India! I had no one to receive Shiatsu from - so I worked on myself! My Shiatsu path continues to unfold in new and profound ways, and I'm now really happy to be studying alongside this global Shiatsu network 💜☯️ . . . . . . . .#sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #mobilepractitioner #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #practitioner #shiatsu #shiatsulife #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #qigong #holistic #holisticcoach

The Shiatsu Greats Anyone in Shiatsu world will be familiar with Carola Beresford-Cook! As a...

Glastonbury apple orchard camping.... ....would have been rude not to whip up a crumble! The perfect Autumn food - from one of my favourite campsites! This time I was joined by a near full moon for company. Who else is enjoying more warming meals, root veggies and autumn orange leaves?! Time to pick some of these soon 🎃🎃🎃 . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #mobilepractitioner #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #glastonbury #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #qigong #holistic #holisticcoach

Glastonbury apple orchard camping.... ....would have been rude not to whip up a crumble! The...

Swapping Shiatsu this week.... Fantastic skillshare with very experienced Practitioner @tanyapriceshiatsu ✌️☯️ Tanya works in the tranquil Body Matters space in Steyning, West Sussex. Tanya's physical Shiatsu helped me feel more grounded and loosened my tight hips. I felt more connected to the ground as I walked home, noticing the contact of my feet with the floor and with each step, feeling more weighted. Mind was calmer. The skilled touch of Shiatsu that treats you as an individual and works with how it finds you in the moment is such a great way to be reminded of your physical shell and give it some TLC. Shiatsu is also like a thank you for how hard the body works to carry you through life and all the tough times. It's also a welcome break from the busy mind. Our training is slightly different which was reflected in the Shiatsu we gave to each other. This was also a nice reminder that the world needs all Shiatsu styles...because we each offer something unique that will benefit someone. Lovely to meet Tanya and looking forward to more swaps.☯️💜 I'll remember to get a pic of us both next time! .. Do you share your skills with others? If not, and you'd like to, head to @practitionersgarden for an upcoming story about how to organise a swap with another Practitioner. 🌱 . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Swapping Shiatsu this week.... Fantastic skillshare with very experienced Practitioner @tanyapriceshiatsu ✌️☯️ Tanya works in...

Summer months... As colours turn and Earth Element brings in the Autumn Equinox, I'm as usual wondering what happened to summer. Grateful to have holed up on the south downs these past few weeks. Some alone time is exactly what I've needed. Trips into Brighton and Surrey have been light, brief and fun. So this is kinda a post to say... I'm still alive! I've been laying low in preparation for the upcoming Wiltshire gathering @thegeobiologist , Equinox celebrations in Glastonbury and then the much anticipated Dorset discussion day with Rory exploring the true meaning of freedom and prophecy as coded in Jung's symbolism. It's taking me down some fresh mental wanderings - as usual giving me more questions than providing answers. ... Photo a throwback to south London park lazing with @james.dee.clayton in July and me trying to be more relaxed in front of a camera. Adventures incoming. And India on the horizon now too. Hope you are keeping well, as we slip into cosy jumpers and Yin vibes. ☯️ . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Summer months... As colours turn and Earth Element brings in the Autumn Equinox, I'm as...

First ever Shiatsu insights.... On a noticeboard in Yoga Point #brixton ! I was queuing for a yoga class and happened to read this. The rest is history! I'm using a different SIM after my phone was run over by a van last Wednesday (long story) and discovered some old pics. I snapped this one thinking "this sounds curious" I must read up more about this. Fast forward 7yrs and I'm now working as a Shiatsu Practitioner in both the UK and India Id never considered working in the health space. But I guess fate guided me down a different path, and I chose to follow. Two Shiatsu treatments were all it took for me to sign up to study this incredible ancient healing modality for three years. Thank you also to burnout which made me seriously improve my self care, and commit to learning more about my body and what it needs (and actually listen to the signals) ☯️ . . . . . . .#sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

First ever Shiatsu insights.... On a noticeboard in Yoga Point #brixton ! I was queuing...

Collective existence.... New explorations incoming - once I've got thinking and feeling minds aligned. Group discussions later this month with @thegeobiologist will reveal more. Where we need to be in community (and how to do that) Vs looking within to fulfill our needs. Spiritual authority is and always was an inner job. Roman Christianity distorted this and immeasurably changed the course of human evolution. It has us looking to an external 'higher (male) power'. Perhaps the greatest deception of our age. And no, I'm not "religious", but when someone says "I will teach you about what is hidden from you", how can we not be curious (Mary Magdalene 6:3) #jung #goethe #steiner Vedic philosophy teaches of Indra's Net.... The geniuses who could see beyond the visible knew of the network and our need to co-exist. The unconscious mind has the answers. And the answers reveal themselves in groups, in more profound ways than when we It's all unfolding... Energy workers, pls head to @practitionersgarden 🙏 Image via @sarahofmagdalene . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Collective existence.... New explorations incoming - once I've got thinking and feeling minds aligned. Group...

Being with the elements.... A day spent outdoors is a good day. 80 percent of my time in India, I'm outdoors (assuming about a fifth of time I'm sleeping). Getting outside of concrete, walking on the earth, immersing in salt water....free and plentiful sources of mind and body boosting energy. Walking among apple trees, willow trees and being by water are my fav places to be. The grass in my local park is so thick after all the sun and rain lately. And sunshine!!! 🌞🌞🌞 But not enough of it lately. I need massive Vit D doses. A glimpse of it in the UK and everyone starts complaining it's too hot! I have Reynauds Disease so cold weather/winters are no fun. Though I do love the quiet and introspection of yin winter energy. Wrapping up another UK summer and thoughts now turning to India.... . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Being with the elements.... A day spent outdoors is a good day. 80 percent of...

Recharging on the North York Moors... Van life Puppies Beaches UK touring Star gazing Cold plunges Archie the dog Sitting by water Spontaneous plans With @katie_loves_nature Cream teas @ Walwick Hall ☯️ . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #traveluk #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #vanlife

Recharging on the North York Moors... Van life Puppies Beaches UK touring Star gazing Cold...

Dogs, gardens, art, sea... Summer rain, dog walks, sea air, the Turner, and candlelit evenings by the fire. Peacefulness in Deal, with Hugo and the cats. . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #lovekent #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #kent #petsit

Dogs, gardens, art, sea... Summer rain, dog walks, sea air, the Turner, and candlelit evenings...

My favourite things.... A 15 year of Spaniel Books Cathedrals Evensong Flowers Writing Soaking up greens Mystery symbols Evening sun Drinking coffee All the ingredients of a Friday laced with light exploration and nourishment for body and soul. Happy Friday x . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #lovekent #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #shiatsulondon

My favourite things.... A 15 year of Spaniel Books Cathedrals Evensong Flowers Writing Soaking up...

Old London haunts..... Wandering Brixton today and remembering what had me walking round this corner of my road in 2020 - and away from my flat and everything I had built up over 15 years of working in the frenetic city of London. I walked towards a warmer climate, time to sleep and the option to live slower in every way (in India). Restoring your energy is a gradual process. There is no hurrying. There is no one size fits all formula. Sometimes on the healing path you'll go backwards. Other days you're bursting with energy and up for everything. Then you find yourself on empty again. Life is never linear. Nor is the healing path. There are inevitable highs and lows. The feeling full and feeling empty, and unexpected changes which might keep you in bed for a day, resisting the urge to do, but ultimately so low on energy that there is little choice in the matter. I hated doing nothing. And being in bed. And not accomplishing and securing other satisfying signs of 'progressing'. But slowly, I've found a pace and rhythm that suits me. I started to fkourish, slowly, and as I did, my holistics practice flourished too. Follow for more on burnout recovery. ✌️ . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #summersolstice #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #southdowns #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Old London haunts..... Wandering Brixton today and remembering what had me walking round this corner...

Solo effort Vs community This one is spot on. So many of us pushing on alone for the thrill of success, however you define it. Chasing dreams while health crumbles. Do you have a happy balance between solo Vs group effort? If balance isn't there, how could you find it? Eating, cooking, shared sleeping space, working - togetherness at Cae Mabon in October 2019 was the closest I came to a community structure where tasks and events were shared. . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

Solo effort Vs community This one is spot on. So many of us pushing on...

Energy boosters.... Dogs Beach Walking Exploration Willow trees Holistic health Medieval towns Beautiful interiors Comfy garden spaces 💚 Happy Sunday x . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #kent #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul #kentlife #lovekent

Energy boosters.... Dogs Beach Walking Exploration Willow trees Holistic health Medieval towns Beautiful interiors Comfy...

About Burnout Survival.... ....I've learned a few things over the last four years of recovering my energy levels, and fundamentally, me. My daily practice to open energy channels and work acupressure points is just one part of the story. But it's a vital part because making space for this helped to ignite a reconnection. In the rush to do, and pursue my many interests, and complete my Shiatsu studies, I forgot about checking in with myself. I came close to full burnout. New guidance coming soon - fresh insights on: ⚪ Burnout recovery ⚪ Long Covid solutions ⚪ Improving your energy levels My Story: Recovering from burnout was a confusing and strange experience. I didn't have a plan. Nor was I surrounded by people who truly understood what burnout is like. When I found myself happily stranded in India for the entire pandemic, I used my trainings from Shiatsu, Reiki and Qigong to keep me balanced and energised. Im still learning. It's a process. Sometimes my energy levels plummet - as they did in Kathmandu, twice. Turns out I can't handle hectic, traffic filled, noisy cities (can anyone?) Like a wilting flower, I quickly lost my spark. I felt rootless and disorientated. I'm still discovering conditions, and new limits, that negatively impact my system. And happily, finding new ways to live that fill me with energy and enthusiasm for life. ..... Get my weekly updates: Join here - www.sja-holistics.com/news You'll get a short snippet from me every Friday. All stories will be on my Substack too. Wishing you a good week, Sarah . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #summersolstice #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout #southdowns #practitioner #shiatsu #reiki #recharge #rechargeyoursoul

About Burnout Survival.... ....I've learned a few things over the last four years of recovering...

Sundays are for recharging 💚 Having some peaceful country vibes after the solstice celebrations last...

Sounds of a beautiful harp..... ...I met this talented lady at the meditation gathering in...

Solstice vibes.... Group meditation at Oliver's Hill, a stunning site in Wiltshire and former castle of Oliver Cromwell. The site is crossed by 40 leylines and the day before the solstice, is visited for meditations through the day starting at harmony hour - midday. This year's vibe was more peaceful than last year. Settled and rippling with happiness, especially when the sun came out! Arms in the air! I met a woman with a harp and ended up giving her a lift to Glastonbury. And she had nowhere to stay so she took the other pod of my tent. I knew there was a reason I needed to bring my 4man! Peaceful views from the tent door. This is my burnout medicine. Apple trees, long grass and views of the Tor. Bliss! Happy solstice 🌻 . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #summersolstice #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #burnoutrecovery #burnout

Solstice vibes.... Group meditation at Oliver's Hill, a stunning site in Wiltshire and former castle...

Robo-Dad... With his replacement hip and battle against cancer - Willy wonka is one super dude. A brief snapshot of Mr A this Father's Day: First pic - while he was having chemo. Life serves you some sh+t eh, just after you've retired. I cycled to the Dam to raise a bit of money. Second pic - cooking up a storm on a BBQ in Olympic National Park, Washington, USA on their travels (1979) before I joined the world shortly after, in Canada. Third pic - cruising around Spain in his late 60s. The Malteser man knows how to build machines (of the chocolate variety), keep the wheels greased (whiskey) and travel the world (planes, trains, cars through deserts....) 74 and going strong. ✌️✨🔥 . . . . . . . #fathersday #dad #cancersurvivor #fakehip #maltesers #funny

Robo-Dad... With his replacement hip and battle against cancer - Willy wonka is one super...

Watery sacred places.... Spot the Red Sea, and the waters at Shoreham by Sea! Two...

Back in London town... ...with the best welcome greeting by Ziggy! London is feeling fresh and fun in this sunshine! Taking a few days to ground before I start organising swaps, offering treatments and catching up with everyone. Filling my eyes and ears - all my books, sunshine, dogs barking, grass being mowed and exploded suitcases as I try to unpack. Speak soon ✌️☯️ . . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #lovetravel #burnoutrecovery #burnout #shiatsuwithoutborders

Back in London town... ...with the best welcome greeting by Ziggy! London is feeling fresh...

June 11th International Shiatsu Day 💙 People are coming together today from all around Europe to celebrate the wonders of Shiatsu! I'm celebrating today Egypt style by resting my Kidney organs and replenishing with good food and sea swimming! Looking forward to catching up with Shiatsu friends soon when I return to the UK. My thoughts on the relevance of Shiatsu today: As medical interventions from Western model health care reveal their limited use for treating a range of psycho-emotional issues, it is healing modalities like Shiatsu, Reiki, Reflexology, Acupuncture and Craniosacral that more and more people are turning to. For healing, support (touch and verbal) and simply moving through our increasingly pressured and fast paced lives. For depression, anxiety, PTSD, trauma and symptoms of Long Covid - people are experiencing subtle transformations with these holistic healing modalities. The treatment rooms are spaces in which a healing opportunity exists, and the receiver takes the opportunity in whatever way is right for them. My Shiatsu journey began in 2016. By the time I graduated in 2019, many areas of my life had been transformed. It wasn't an easy period. Life became divided according to life BS (Before Shiatsu) and after. Though my health is still far from perfect - it is having tools like Shiatsu to empower my selfcare that makes a huge difference. I am in charge of my healing. Shiatsu can be as much about receiving as learning skills to work on yourself, as a self-Shiatsu practice. More to follow about joining me online to learn these skills. 💙 . . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #lovetravel #burnoutrecovery #internationalshiatsuday #shiatsuwithoutborders

June 11th International Shiatsu Day 💙 People are coming together today from all around Europe...

Friday news... Hi from a very sweaty Dahab on the Red Sea, Egypt. I seem to have escaped Goa's humidity and re-discovered it here. My hands have been swimming over my laptop keyboard thismorning. .... Photo: it's me looking fresh faced after the best facial ever! Highly recommend Jiva Spa in Pokhara, one of my absolutely favourite places on this earth 🌸💐🌻 Wishing you a happy Friday x . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #lovetravel #burnoutrecovery

Friday news... Hi from a very sweaty Dahab on the Red Sea, Egypt. I seem...

Takes me back.... Burning Man 2018 shot by @joekeefe_ Thoughts now turning to dusty deserts, of New Mexico?!! @shoshannan.silverberg dropping into my inbox today to float ideas of summer adventures. 🔥 While I count down the final days in a very different kind of dust here in Egypt. If this cold shifts, I might actually make it below surface into Egypt's stunning marine world, full of deep canyons and craggy nooks and drop offs. I don't really do "extreme" but I make an exception for diving and drifting around the most incredible watery worlds. A far cry from dusty deserts and star lit nights. Let's see what unfolds.... ✨ . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage #burningman

Takes me back.... Burning Man 2018 shot by @joekeefe_ Thoughts now turning to dusty deserts,...

🔥🔥🔥 Spot on A cheesy pic but.... ...this is exactly what healing is to me. Both the healing I've received from remarkable people ever since aged 17 I experienced Reiki for the first time. I'll never forget Corinne - the warmth off her hands was incredible. The impact of the Reiki energy was even more mind blowing. Stress washed off me like an etch a sketch. And my own skills I've acquired since then, that catalyse healing in others. I'm not a "healer" - what I do is create spaces in which there is a change. People might experience this as a healing encounter. Fundamental to creating a space for this is: 1. Being grounded in myself, so I know what is mine and what is yours 2. Being able to hold a neutral space, free of my hopes for the experience, and for sure free of any need for external validation (in the form of positive feedback) 3. Accepting the receiver as they are, holding them in unconditional positive regard. The less I drink, smoke, throw myself off course with late nights and over indulgence - the more in tune I am with myself and my surroundings. Living clean has been an effortless natural progression. A movement away from things that don't feel good. And an intuitive movement towards what does (usually involves being near water and plenty of alone time). ..... Spending 3 seasons among Goa's BS "wellness" community has also provided a strong flavour of what is definitely not any path to true healing, spirituality or self improvement. You can't buy your way to enlightenment or inner peace 🤬🤪 . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #cairo #egypt #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

🔥🔥🔥 Spot on A cheesy pic but.... ...this is exactly what healing is to me....

Holy water.... ...tastes gross. @james.dee.clayton got right in there, having a good wash down, drinking...

My favourite spaces.... Soaking up the prints and greens and vibes in this beautiful sanctuary in Cairo, my new favourite cafe. Here's to another 42 years of life, on my bday today! Also celebrating Asia-Africa travels, freedom and all the new people I've been lucky enough to meet since I left the UK in November 2022. My practitioner work continues to evolve too, in unexpected ways. ☯️ . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #cairo #egypt #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

My favourite spaces.... Soaking up the prints and greens and vibes in this beautiful sanctuary...

On the final days of my 41st year... I'm cruising around Cairo with @james.dee.clayton stumbling around corners into hidden cafes, bookshops and art galleries. ⚪Drinking mocktails on the Nile ⚪Eating off mirrored tables ⚪Blending into giant ancient Chinese vases ⚪Exploring colonial era French cafes Roll on 42 and my global adventures, writing my way around the world and sharing nuggets of discoveries from Asia. It's been a long journey recovering from burnout in 2019. Plus the vast amount of professional and personal transformation that was catalysed in 2016 by the start of my Shiatsu studies. Another year around the sun almost completed. Another season in Goa finished. And new ideas seeded by digital writing and meeting a ton of new people. ☯️ . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics aholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #cairo #egypt #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

On the final days of my 41st year... I'm cruising around Cairo with @james.dee.clayton stumbling...

The only remaining of the 7 wonders of the natural world.... Here's a brain fizzler: how did ancient people build a pyramid that when de-constructed, could fit around the whole of France!? Love a fun but mostly meaningless fact! The pyramids were quite the vibe especially when standing up close and with the heat of the day (and it was mostly cloudy). An incredible experience that I'm still processing as I was nailed by jetlag lols. Egypt is a perfect stopping off point en route from Asia to the UK. A proper melting pot of cultures thanks to its location in North Africa but also the Middle East - so it straddles both Africa and Asia. Tons to see as you can imagine. Interesting pace of life that is both the frenetic city vibe you'd anticipate plus a slowness born of the Egyptian inner tranquility, of river people evolved from the great Nile. . . . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #cairo #egypt #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

The only remaining of the 7 wonders of the natural world.... Here's a brain fizzler:...

Just listen! I got the sound but not the best picture ... One thing I...

If I ever opened a spa ... ...it would be like Jiva Spa, Pokhara. I love everything about it! The friendly staff. The excellent treatments. The treatment range. The gorgeous grounds. The proximity to Lake Pokhara. The consistency. The tea you're offered afterwards. Ive had 3 different treatments and theyve all been brilliant. And I can be a bit fussy about bodywork... The facial revived me both inside and out. It took off a metaphorical layer of stress and baggage. My eyesight and outlook was so much improved. Truly incredible (and the best £11 I've spent in a long time!) Looking dishevelled after a 90min Swedish Massage today and thinking this is how every Sunday should be! ✌️☯️ . . . . . . . . . . sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #nepal #pokhara #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

If I ever opened a spa ... ...it would be like Jiva Spa, Pokhara. I...

A life of water.... Can you tell it's my happy place. Quiet morning vibes with...

Looking dishevelled after a super duper massage 👌 What a brilliant place I found in Pokhara. I wish all of you could visit this massage space! Seeing Hands is a government run massage centre staffed by visually impaired masseuses. Shanti skillfully found every knot (including the ones I didn't know I had) and worked them out using Swedish Massage. Wow I'm aching today but feeling a lot looser. I had knots on my back/shoulders (SI and GB meridians for the Shiatsu pracs out there) and noticed tightness along LV in the legs which I hadn't realised was sore. So I'm doing some self-Shiatsu there today. Shanti used a clock which she tapped (I think with her foot) to keep time. The space was clean and quiet. Really enjoyed my 90min massage! 🙏 . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #nepal #pokhara #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

Looking dishevelled after a super duper massage 👌 What a brilliant place I found in...

This one seems to have struck a chord.... This was a casual mention on my Stories yesterday as I sat in a bar next to Lake Pokhara having a lemon ginger honey tea. Never had so many responses on a Story. I know others in my circle have started following a sober path, so I know it's not just me. But I still end up feeling like I have to justify my choice. I didn't realise how many among you all are off the booze. To clarify a few things: ⚪ I have no issue with others drinking (unless it results in nasty/unpleasant behaviour which unfortunately is sometimes the case). I end up being 'grateful' for my friends who are happy drunks, which feels like a weird thing to be grateful for. ⚪ I didn't exactly choose to stop drinking, it just makes me feel rubbish. So why bother?! ⚪ This past Goa season (a drinker's paradise) I've had a drink or 2 on occasion, as a "treat", and every time, I've felt sh+t the next day. Guess I just cannot process the toxins. ⚪ I might have a drink in the future. I don't feel any need to abstain completely. ⚪ I feel like I've missed out on "good times" with some friends cos I'm not partying/drinking. That makes me feel sad. But I've gained in other ways: my sleep, my health, better conversation with ppl who enjoy an ideas exchange rather than slurred/blurred late night antics that no one can quite remember the next day. ⚪ I look at the numbers: more people die of alcohol than any other drug. Just because it's legal doesn't mean it's acceptable/ok for your health - why don't more people realise this?! And I don't want to get into any debate about what's good/bad but this is worth knowing: ⚪ Some years ago, Professor David Nutt was commissioned by the UK government to complete the largest comparative study of every drug available in the UK. He concluded that alcohol is the most dangerous, and was promptly fired. Guess his findings didn't sit well with the Drinks/Beverage lobby. ⚪ As with any drug, it perhaps isn't the drug itself that is "evil" rather how you consume and react to it that is the problem. Any thoughts on this welcomed. . . . . . . . . . . . . #soberlife #sober #alcoholfree #alcohlicsanonymous #alcoholfreelife

This one seems to have struck a chord.... This was a casual mention on my...

Morning Qigong with Lake Pokhara Feeling a lot calmer and peaceful after morning Qigong from my little room at the edge of the lake. Breathing in some much needed greens and blues after the hectic city life of Kathmandu. Sleepy and keeping it low-key today while I recharge. Sending love from Nepal x . . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #nepal #pokhara #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

Morning Qigong with Lake Pokhara Feeling a lot calmer and peaceful after morning Qigong from...

Shiatsu in Kathmandu The stress of leaving Goa and swapping the sound of waves for the sound of Kathmandu traffic went straight to my neck. I was so happy to find Zen Spa. The quiet treatment room is at the top of the building. It was easy to forget you're right in the middle of a busy city. Pratima did 90mins of strong work on my shoulders, neck and lower back. I could feel I'd been re-arranged. That's the depth of Shiatsu - like a massage on speed. But calming! I slept really well and feel looser and more relaxed today. One more day in the heart of Kathmandu and then it's time to retreat to Pokhara for some fresh air and quiet time. Pic of me post-treatment looking a bit dazed! . . . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach #guide #kathmandu #nepal #pokhara #digitalnomad #lovetravel #heal #balance #shiatsu #shiatsumassage

Shiatsu in Kathmandu The stress of leaving Goa and swapping the sound of waves for...

May 2023: wrapping up another Goa season 🌴 Back in 2019, I could never have dreamed of moving to India and staying for 3 years. Travelling around India during a pandemic: Himachal, Ladakh and Rajasthan. Then carrying on my travels around Asia and working as I go. It has been a much needed life change. I used my own training in various Eastern modalities to improve my health, specifically, to restore my energy levels and mood: ⚪ Qigong morning practice ⚪ Reiki Kotodama inner chanting meditation ⚪ Reiki Distance Healing with a UK based friend & Reiki Master ⚪ Acupressure points eg on the hands, feet and legs to restore energy and calm the mind ⚪ Shiatsu stretches to open channels and keep energy flowing ⚪ Working Lung 1 point, thumbing and palming the channel to help me "let go" of anxiety and stress related to my former corporate life and identity ⚪ Receiving bodywork from other Practitioners ⚪ Everything else: diet, yoga, sea swimming, sleep routine, becoming mostly sober .... Are you recovering from burnout? Or do you need to improve your energy levels? I'm sharing the practices that restored my energy and returned me to a fulfilling, more balanced life. DM for info about receiving online 1:1 support: @sja.holistics . . . . . . . @lisajohnsonstrategist #visiblelisajohnson #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #therapist #healer #instructor #coach

May 2023: wrapping up another Goa season 🌴 Back in 2019, I could never have...

Quiet garden chilling.... Made it to Nepal! Kathmandu is clean, people are friendly and laid back, the cafes are chilled and the night times in central Kathmandu are buzzing! I'm rather overwhelmed after the peacefulness of sleepy Agonda. Big city vibes are going to take some time to adjust to! Missing the sea a lot so headed to this garden to be near some ponds and fountains! On the hunt for some sushi and momos. Looking forward to Pokhara and peaceful mountain vibes. Lots of Qigong practice soon for me. Happy days ☯️ . . . . . . . . .

Quiet garden chilling.... Made it to Nepal! Kathmandu is clean, people are friendly and laid...

Reflecting.... ...on the past months spent on dreamy tropical Goa, as I sit in Delhi airport propping eyes open on a long layover, transiting to Nepal. For now - sharing my recent fav insta pieces. As for Goa memories and insights gleaned from another season full of highs and lows, living amongst the madness of an expat community - more to come. Peace to you all, wherever you are. (Hopefully somewhere more restful than an airport food court.) X . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionersgarden #shistsu #reiki #qigong #balance #wellness #goalife #nepal

Reflecting.... ...on the past months spent on dreamy tropical Goa, as I sit in Delhi...

Searching for a hidden beach... So hidden, we couldn't find it! Funny times hanging with @xpcdbx✌️ Was instead blessed with driving by the biggest Banyan tree I've ever seen in Goa! These are my final Goa days...already feeling sad to leave the salt water. Daily sea swims are the best tonic. Fresh mountain air is calling! . . . . . . . . #lovegoa #sjaholistics #nepal #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden

Searching for a hidden beach... So hidden, we couldn't find it! Funny times hanging with...

On the move.... September 2021 Arriving into Jaipur, Rajasthan After a long train journey, I was greeted by this sign for Shanti Home. Shanti in Goa means "chilled". A laid back home is exactly the tonic required for mental, noisy Jaipur. Its a marmite city. Thoughts now turning to packing up my Goa life as I set sights on Kathmandu. Today's Scorpio lunar eclipse full moon with retrogrades gives pause for reflection while also saying goodbyes and preparing mind and body for new places and vibes. It's countdown on the sweaty beach times that I love so much. The clock ticks towards fresh mountain air and icy cold streams. So long Goa 🌴☀️ and a peaceful but ungrounded season in which I barely drank or partied but somehow had to move house 5 times. . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #nepal #kathmandu #pokhara #mountainvibes #qigong #shiatsu #reiki #therapists #heal #fullmoon #lovetravel #nomad #nomadlife

On the move.... September 2021 Arriving into Jaipur, Rajasthan After a long train journey, I...

Coming for you Nepal... Next week I'm touching down into the land of mountains, high passes and temples. I've wanted to visit this stunning mountainous country of dizzying heights and spectacular peaks for many years. But the pandemic chaos grounded me in Goa. The Kathmandu Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to several historic temples and palaces. Excited to try out Nepali food in Kathmandu, get some fresh mountain air, peaceful Buddhist vibes and plenty of time for Qigong. It's sweltering in Goa, with forest fires raging nearby. It's already raining in North India. The weather is really disturbed this year. Seems that monsoon rains could arrive earlier than the forecasted June 6th in Goa. Now for packing up, winding down and reflecting on another Goa season passed. ☯️ . . . . . . . . #sjaholistics #practiceqigong #practitionerlife #practitionersgarden #healer #coach #instructor #burnoutrecovery #qigong #shiatsu #reiki #nepal #travelnepal #pokhara #wellnessworld #health #healingenergy #energywork

Coming for you Nepal... Next week I'm touching down into the land of mountains, high...

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