Shiatsu Training Foundation Year Programme

Two people on a futon, one reaching for the other's foot, working the coupling points for the PV vessel

Beginning September 2026

Learn the art of healing through touch. Our Year One Shiatsu training offers a solid foundation in both technique and theory, grounded in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Masunaga’s meridian system. This course is designed to support personal development and provide the essential skills to begin practising Shiatsu with confidence and sensitivity.

Whether you're completely new to bodywork or looking to deepen your skills, this course offers a transformative journey into touch, energy, and holistic health.

Course Overview

  • Duration: September 2026 – June 2027

    Format: 12 weekends (Saturday & Sunday, 10:00–17:30)

    Location: Buckfastleigh, Devon

    Level: Beginner/Foundation — attendance at the weekend introductory course on 12–13 June 2026 is required. This first year is the beginning of a three‑year programme.

    Certification: Certificate of Completion for each completed year; successful completion of all three years leads to the Level 4 Diploma in Shiatsu.

    Dates; Beginning September 5th.

Course Content

1.
Introductory Weekend

  • Welcome, introductions & course overview

  • History and foundations of Shiatsu

  • Principles of Ki movement, breathing & moving from Hara

  • Shiatsu in prone, supine & side positions

  • Ethics & contraindications for home practice

2.
Basic Chinese Concepts & Listening Skills

  • Tao, Yin/Yang, Ki, Shen, Essence

  • Integrating pressure, stretching & movement

  • Introduction to diagnosis

  • Basic listening skills for emotional sensitivity

3.
Five Transformations & Meridian Theory

  • The Five Elements in nature and health

  • Introduction to questioning diagnosis

  • Meridian mapping: Bladder meridian

  • Anatomical terms for accurate location

4.
Kidney Meridian & Kyo/Jitsu

  • Meridian functions, tsubo, postural & facial diagnosis

  • Treatment positions and appropriate use of techniques

5.
Liver & Gallbladder Meridians

  • Meridian pathways, characteristics & treatment

6.
Heart Protector, Triple Heater, Heart & Small Intestine Meridians

  • Understanding and treating the Fire element

    7.
    Food Energetics & Facial Diagnosis

  • Oriental nutrition principles

  • Diet to support Ki flow and health

  • Clinic Day: supervised giving and receiving of Shiatsu

8.
Stomach & Spleen Meridians + Diagnosis

  • Spirit of diagnosis: listening, visual, touch, questioning

  • Integration of Five Transformations

9.
Lung & Large Intestine Meridians

  • Study, treatment and practical application

10.
Advanced Techniques & Course Integration

  • In-depth techniques for neck, shoulders, and adapting to client needs

  • Review of all 12 Classical Meridians

  • Further exploration of Kyo and Jitsu

11.
Final Assessment Weekend

  • Practical assessment and review

  • Reflection, feedback, and course completion

Tuition & Fees

  • Course Fee: £2750

  • Payment Options:

    • Full payment in advance (by July 31st, 2026)

    • Or £500 deposit then 7 instalments:

      • Instalments: £2290 (inc the £40 extra charge) divided into 7 monthly payments of £327.14, the first

        to reach us onJuly 1st 2026 and the last on January 1st 2026.

        If the whole of year 1 course is booked and paid for by 31st June a discount of £50 can be applied. Total = £2700

  • Includes: Tuition, course materials, practice sessions, supervised feedback, and certification

  • Not Included: Meals, accommodation, or additional textbooks (optional)

If you're facing financial challenges, please get in touch — we are committed to making Shiatsu accessible.

Who This Course is For?

  • Those seeking a new professional path in holistic health

  • Anyone wanting to deepen their understanding of energy and touch

  • Yoga teachers, massage therapists, or health practitioners looking to expand their skills

  • Individuals drawn to a more connected, embodied, and purposeful life

 Ready to Begin Your Shiatsu Journey?

Join our 2026 Year One Training!
 Spaces are limited to ensure a personal, hands-on learning environment.

APPLY NOW