Shiatsu is a form of oriental bodywork therapy that is rooted in the ancient system of Traditional Chinese Medicine. A shiatsu session usually lasts about one hour and you should wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing. Before your shiatsu session your practitioner will talk to you about any health concerns you have. She will look at your tongue, check several pulses and, using traditional Chinese medical theory, determine the appropriate treatment for you. Techniques used in a shiatsu session may include pressure, kneading, tapping,stretching, and soothing of the body's energetic meridians to loosen stagnation and harmonize the flow of "Qi" (or vital energy) throughout the body. These techniques help fortify the body's natural healing power and thus aid in preventing disease. Shiatsu is beneficial in relieving a variety of conditions including headaches, menstrual difficulties, fibromyalgia, and chronic body pain and can also be used as a simple relaxation technique. Shiatsu can also increase body awareness and be helpful in healing emotional trauma that may be stored in the body.