This is the another question I'm frequently asked. People want to put it into a context they understand. I usually say it's like acupuncture without the needles, which is a start but not the full story. Jin Shin Jyutsu® originated in Japan and was first described in written form in the Kojiki, a document dating back to 712 A.D., whereas acupuncture originated in China.

In the Jin Shin Jyutsu® classes I've attended, acupuncturists were also studying Jin Shin Jyutsu®, thus there isn't a one to one correlation between the two modalities. What is shared is the concept that energy needs to flow, not stagnate, and there are specific patterns of energy flow essential for one's health and well-being.

When I receive Jin Shin Jyutsu®, I find it relaxing. I might notice the practitioner's hands holding various points at first but soon allow the process to still my mind and I allow myself to drop into the experience. Each session and person is different, though, and one's response may also depend upon what is being addressed. While I, a high energy person, find Jin Shin Jyutsu® sessions relaxing, someone with lower energy may find them invigorating

The practitioner holds the pertinent points without massaging or manipulating them. There is no muscular manipulation, no tapping, and generally no conversation is necessary during the session.

Although I've experimented extensively receiving various modalities including acupuncture, I have yet to try anything that encompasses the key attributes of Jin Shin Jyutsu®. I had to try Jin Shin Jyutsu® for myself to get a visceral sense of it. I draw a parallel to trying to describe a flavor someone has never had or to explain "ocean" or "snow" without someone's direct experience.

Please consider what you would like to address prior to the session. We'll discuss this before you get on the table.

Please wear comfortable clothing that put you at ease on the table. This aids in both relaxation and energy flow through your body. I will be "reading your pulses" when you are on the table, so I'll likely have to ask you to remove any wrist jewelry or watches prior to the session.

My Jin Shin Jyutsu® sessions last an hour and a half. One hour of that time you spend on the massage table. Prior to the table time we'll discuss what needs harmonizing and following the session you'll have ample time to transition back from the Jin Shin Jyutsu® flow sequences and then receive appropriate self-helps based on what occurred during the session.

Adequate hydration is always important for your well-being and helps keep you harmonized and is especially important following a Jin Shin Jyutsu® session. Also, please listen to what your body needs following a session - you may need to rest or you may feel energized. Let your intuition be your guide and harmony be your intention.