Therapists On Site - Stephen Van Der Meer BSc BSYA

Photograph of Stephen Van Der Meer

Stephen received his practical training over two years in a prestigious Tokyo clinic, working to the very high standards expected in Japan. He trained in a combination of Shiatsu and Amma massage technique under a highly respected Acupuncture doctor and Shiatsu therapist.

Certified and insured in the UK, Stephen uses this combination technique to facilitate the best results for both muscle relaxation and release of blocked energy or Qi, allowing energy to flow freely through the meridians, stimulating an effective healing process.

While living and travelling in Asia over five years, Stephen absorbed Eastern culture and philosophies and feels that he has particularly gained from learning Shiatsu in its country of origin. Stephen aims to bring to the UK the same breadth of service and standard of treatment that is offered in Japan.

About Shiatsu Massage

Shiatsu is a Japanese healing art that has the same theoretical foundation as Chinese acupuncture. In Japan, Shiatsu has been recognised, regulated and licensed by the Japanese Ministry of Health and Welfare since 1964.

In common with Traditional Chinese Medicine is the theory that within us all flows energy (Qi) the balance of which is intrinsically linked to the health of the individual. Although this energy is present in every cell of the body, it circulates in distinct channels commonly known as 'meridians'.

If the flow of Qi is compromised in some way along the path of the meridian, the Qi flow along the entire meridian will be affected, resulting in an imbalance in the person's energy system as a whole. This will then cause symptoms, the location and severity of which are dependent on the intensity and duration of the Qi imbalance. If the Qi imbalance persists and further intensifies, there then follows a decline in the functions of associated organs and the person's general health.

The Shiatsu practitioner works along the meridians of the body, to alleviate stress and promote physical, emotional and spiritual well-being. In Shiatsu, which literally means 'finger pressure', the tools used are the thumbs, fingers, elbows, and to a lesser extent knees and feet. Stretches and massage techniques such as tapping, squeezing, rubbing, and deep pressure are applied along the meridians to release energy blockages and re-establish the optimal flow of Qi.

Benefits of Shiatsu Massage:

  • Deep tissue and muscle relaxation
  • Stress reduction and management
  • Releases toxins from the body
  • Disease prevention
  • Increased flexibility
  • Improved blood circulation
  • Balances Qi
  • Calms nervousness

Shiatsu Can Be Used To Treat:

  • Back and neck pain
  • Sciatica
  • Sports injuries
  • Stress, anxiety & depression
  • Insomnia & sleep disorders
  • Lung and breathing problems
  • Heart problems
  • Liver problems
  • Bladder problems
  • Kidney problems
  • Menstrual problems
  • Headaches & migraines
  • Digestive problems
  • IBS

Booking Information

Please contact Stephen for more information.

Treatment Fees

Treatments are £60 for one hour.

Special offers are available for new clients - please contact Stephen for more information.

Contact Details

Location

Clinic Central is located just off Upper Street in the heart of Islington, North London.

This is within easy reach of Angel, King's Cross, Clerkenwell, The Barbican and The City, and within a couple of miles of Holloway, Camden, Kentish Town, Bloomsbury and Holborn.

Please note: These therapists are independent of Pilates Central.