Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork therapy that works with the body, mind and spirit to create balance and wellness.  This healing art evolved from the same ancient system that developed into acupuncture.  With the introduction of Chinese medicine into Japan in the early 6th century, the framework for shiatsu emerged and then transformed over time.  As shiatsu is rooted in Chinese Medicine theory, it is based on the philosophy that symptoms and illnesses are caused by blockages in vital life force energy or "qi".  Shiatsu literally translates as "finger pressure" and is often referred to as "acupuncture without the needles".  The therapist uses her thumbs, fingers, palms and elbows to apply pressure on specific points. This balances the energy flowing through the meridians (the energy channels), which in turn has very beneficial effects.

Shiatsu works directly with the nervous system to treat a variety of ailments, including: chronic pain, fatigue, insomnia, headaches, digestive issues and menstrual complaints. In addition to these, shiatsu is of benefit for people dealing with high stress levels, anxiety, trauma and ptsd. I have a special interest and focus in helping clients with these specific issues.

The general aim of shiatsu is to encourage the free and balanced flow of qi.  When energy is flowing, it nourishes, regulates and heals the body.  The gentle treatment of shiatsu supports and strengthens the body's ability to heal and balance itself.  It works together with the body rather than against symptoms and disease.  In this regard, shiatsu can have lasting positive effects that benefit one's entire being. 

• Your shiatsu treatment takes place in a relaxing and soothing environment. It is performed on a massage table, while wearing loose, comfortable clothing 

• In addition to the treatment, small lifestyle recommendations (based in Chinese Medicine theory) are often suggested

• Sessions are $100

  Length of the session is between one hour and an hour and 15 minutes

"I have been receiving shiatsu from Suzanne for over 5 months and it has had a greater impact at calming my nervous system more than anything else I have tried. I have been a mental health therapist for 24 years and I highly recommend Suzanne, especially for anyone dealing with anxiety and trauma. " - L.W. - therapist/clinical director (Asheville, NC) 

“I’ve been working with Suzanne for two years, and I can confidently say that I depend on the sense of stability and calmness that shiatsu brings in my life. As a person living in recovery from addiction, I can experience higher levels of depression and anxiety, and my sessions with Suzanne really help me feel more in control. They have also been wonderful for helping with issues like headaches, fatigue, irritability, insomnia, and even mensural discomforts. During the time we spent on lockdown and unable to see healthcare providers in person, I could feel that my body wasn’t in sync the way it had been when I was seeing Suzanne regularly”

-E.K. (Asheville, NC)

“Shiatsu with Suzanne is truly a healing experience and offers a real balm for the nervous system. I leave feeling like I have been returned to my rhythms and given a way to be my healthiest self on every level. This work is a touchstone for me every month.”

-Maria Epes (Asheville, NC)   

“Suzanne is a true healer. I began receiving shiatsu treatments from Suzanne for emotional healing roughly five months ago and have felt nothing but compassion and tranquility when in her presence. My mind and body are able to relax due to her nurturing aura and touch. Each shiatsu session with Suzanne is a physical, mental, and spiritual experience. She is very in-tune with my body’s responses during each session and always makes sure I feel comfortable, physically and emotionally. Suzanne is highly intuitive to feelings and establishes a therapeutic environment that feels safe, warm, and open. Be prepared to enter an environment where you are able to allow your body and mind to rest and respond to Suzanne’s healing energy!”

-E.H. (Asheville, NC)

"Suzanne is brilliant! When I had my first treatment with her at a Costa Rican retreat I was pleasantly surprised! Prepare for a whole mind, body and soul experience offered by someone with empathy and a deep understanding of emotional issues. Like a psychic she picked up on feelings and thoughts just by touching and talking to me and her massage has felt deeply therapeutic at an energetic and physical level. More treatments have followed and after all of them I felt lighter, stronger, calmer and healthier with a deep sense of peace and joy. As someone that had experienced and tried a lot of different therapies and methods of healing I can tell with confidence that her offerings are unique in many different ways and I truly miss them as I live in UK and Europe and can't have the privilege to be one of her regular clients. You definitely need to try!"

-M. Rigopoulou (London, England)

"After almost two decades of severe back and neck issues, insomnia, and depression, I decided to try shiatsu. I was admittedly a bit skeptical at first. Yet upon meeting Suzanne, I found her insightfulness and genuine desire to help so reassuring that I was able to just let go and experience my body's response to the treatment.

I was not expecting to feel years of stored up tension begin to release, but that's what started happening within 10 minutes into the session. I've practiced meditation for over 15 years which has allowed me to be more tuned into my body and overall state of being. Yet there were parts of my body that I was now becoming aware of that were so affected by stress for so long that I stopped noticing them. I started seeing improvements almost immediately.

Before seeing Suzanne, I could barely walk up a flight of stairs without feeling the sensation of burning metal in my neck and shoulders. Now the pain has been tolerable to completely absent on some days. I'm even able to manage short hikes in the mountains. My sleep is much more restful and undisturbed- better than it's been in years, and I'm overall more joyful and energetic.

Not only was Suzanne incredibly thorough, perceptive, and patient during the initial consultation and treatment, she seemed to have a deeply intuitive understanding of what was happening in my body. Suzanne's presence is both comforting and empowering. I'd love to work with her again."

- G. Sultan (Asheville, NC)

HEALING ROOTS SHIATSU

SUZANNE PAZANDAK, SHIATSU THERAPIST,  LMBT #15304

47 ORANGE STREET, SUITE  C.

ASHEVILLE NC, 28801

828-808-5145