Shiatsu Training Foundation Year Programme
Beginning April 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: April 2026 – October 2026
Format: 12 weekends (Saturday & Sunday, 10am–5.30pm)
Location: Buckfastleigh, Devon
Level: Beginner/Foundation — no prior experience required. This is the first of 3 years
Certification: Certificate of Completion of all 3 years - Level 4 Diploma in Shiatsu
Dates; May 1st, 2nd, 3rd, June 12th, 13th, 14th, July 10th, 11th, 12th, August 7th, 8th, 9th, September 11th, 12th, 13th, October 2nd, 3rd, 4th, October 16th, 17th, 18th, November 6th, 7th, 8th
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 March 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 on April 16th 2026 and the last on October 16th 2026.
If the whole of year 1 course is booked and paid for by 31st March 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.