Nancy Web, a skilled practitioner with over 30 years of experience in the world of shiatsu therapy, is our featured guest in this MysticMag interview. She has helped countless individuals find balance and relief from physical and emotional issues through her shiatsu practice. In this interview, Nancy will be sharing her insights on the benefits of shiatsu, the role of energy in healing, and the importance of self-care for overall wellness. Let’s dive into the fascinating world of shiatsu with Nancy!
When did you first know that Shiatsu was your calling and how did it come about?
It was an evolution over time. The first spark of interest came when I was in junior high and I had to do a report on an aspect of another culture for social studies. I went to the library to do research and I became fascinated with both yoga from India and qigong from China. I decided to make my report on both. I felt an affinity for eastern philosophy and the body, mind, spirit connection and I went on to study and teach both.
I got an art degree (BFA) with an interest in using art as a vehicle for healing and expression. I went on to study holistic, art and expressive therapy and energy psychology (NLP, EFT) . My interest in the body-mind connection and the belief that the power of movement and touch can heal lead me to study Reiki and reflexology as well.
My analytical and practical mind needed to understand how these modalities worked. Eastern philosophy believes energy follows intention. This concept was proven correct when I was shopping in Whole Foods thinking about why and how Reiki works and mysteriously a book fell off a shelf in front of my feet. I picked it up and it was a book on Shiatsu. It was like divine intervention. I decided to buy the book. When the cashier saw the book, he told me that a Shiatsu school just opened and there was an open house the next day. I went to the open house, signed up and started classes 2 days later. The rest is history and I have been practicing and teaching for 35 years.
What services do you offer?
Shiatsu is my main modality, which is based on the same theory as acupuncture but uses the power of touch instead of needles. This includes working the entire meridian line along with acupressure on points. I use Reiki symbols to access and open acupoints along with medical qigong. It also includes stretching, rotations to open joints and increase flexibility, gentle rocking, breath awareness and guided meditation.
I am trained and practice many Asian as well as Western techniques. Check my website for details. I refer to my sessions as Transformational Healing. A fusion bodywork, energy medicine/ psychology, Cranial Sacral and therapeutic dialoguing. All methods are closely related in philosophy and work on the same model of natural healing. Each session is unique and based on assessment and individual needs.
How can Shiatsu improve our physical and mental health?
The focus is on strengthening the natural ability to heal. Awakening the inner physician, increasing awareness, guiding the body into physical, structural, emotional, and mental balance and dissipating the negative effects of stress on the body and mind.
Physically promotes healing, relieves pain and tension, enhances the immune system, circulation, metabolism, and digestion. Improves posture, relaxes muscles and helps with recovery from injury or surgery.
Mental health sessions alleviate stress, relax the mind and nervous system, help to transform depression and anxiety, cultivates concentration and clarity, increases self-awareness and confidence, opens channels of creativity, and helps to resolve past trauma. I work with ADHD, bi-polar, PTSD, and depression.
What can a person expect from your sessions?
Sessions are done on a massage table wearing comfortable clothing that allows for freedom of movement I take a full intake on the first visit as Shiatsu addresses and may help to improve all aspect of health. My sessions are 2 hours in duration and longer sessions achieve better results.
What is the most important detail in maintaining a relationship of mutual trust with clients?
I do follow a code of ethics and respect that everyone wants, needs and beliefs are unique to them. Also, since I do much longer sessions then most other practitioners, it gives me time to really get to know my clients and how I can best meet their needs.
What do you love most about your profession?
It is an honor and pleasure to help others find health, balance and happiness in life. I have witnessed a few miracles that wouldn’t have happened in any other profession. I have been told many times that I have made a big difference in my client’s lives. It is very rewarding and keeps me feeling happy and fulfilled. I am grateful that I am living my life’s purpose.
