Shiatsu Health Belfast
Providing natural health care in Belfast since 1990
About me
The Shiatsu Society of Ireland is the professional body responsible for the practice of Shiatsu in Ireland. SSI is a member of the European Shiatsu Federation
Ever since I was young I was always fascinated by the idea of hands-on healing and loved to read stories of people who had the gift of healing.
In the mid 80's my father became very ill and I remember a priest, who was known for his healing gift, coming to see him. He prayed with him and laid his hands on him and although his physical condition did not improve I was inspired by how more accepting of his situation my father became.
Around this time I began studying yoga and meditation and was amazed at the personal benefits they had. Then I discovered Shiatsu.
I began night classes in Belfast, moved to London to learn more and in 1990 after 3 years of formal training I graduated from the School of Shiatsu and Natural Healing, Co Kerry (now the Irish School of Shiatsu).
This wonderful course also introduced me to other methods of healing such as macrobiotic nutrition, 'do-in' self massage, 'makka-ho' meridian exercises, 'sotai' corrective exercises, Bach Flower Remedies, Moxabustion and herbal remedies.
In 1992 I completed a postgraduate course in Shiatsu with the Shiatsu College in Norwich. I also qualified in massage at the Lifespring School, Belfast in 1992 and continue to find it of great benefit in my practice today.
Over the past 17 years I have always sought to develop my practice and knowledge and regularly attend workshops with well known teachers such as Pauline Sasaki, Clifford Andrews, Rex Lassalle and Paul Lundberg
. As part of my own self development and health maintenance I regularly use Shiatsu, meridian exercises, and mediation and I follow a natural food philosophy.
In 1993 I began teaching courses and workshops for beginners in Belfast and throughout Northern Ireland, and since then I have introduced more than 500 students to the power of Shiatsu.
In 2000 I started training to become a shiatsu teacher at the Irish School of Shiatsu, graduating in 2003. This diploma qualifies me to teach students to the professional practitioner level. In 2004 I began teaching the first professional Shiatsu course for practitioners in Northern Ireland and in 2007 the initial group of students graduated successfully.
I have served a number of terms on the committee of the Shiatsu Society of Ireland both as chairperson, secretary and editor of the Society newsletter.
'Healing Hands'

John at work
