Ancient Japanese finger pressure therapy for whole body balance and healing.

Shiatsu is a form of Japanese bodywork that translates literally to "finger pressure." Rooted in traditional Chinese medicine and developed in Japan during the early 20th century, Shiatsu works on the principle that the body's vital energy, known as "qi" or "ki," flows along specific pathways called meridians. When this energy becomes blocked or imbalanced, physical discomfort and illness can result. Shiatsu aims to restore the free flow of energy throughout the body.
During a Shiatsu session at Hana Spa, your therapist uses their thumbs, fingers, palms, and sometimes elbows and knees to apply rhythmic, sustained pressure along the body's meridian lines. Unlike Western massage techniques that primarily manipulate soft tissue, Shiatsu targets specific acupressure points, a technique also central to Thai Massage to stimulate the body's natural healing response. The pressure is held for several seconds at each point before moving to the next, creating a deeply meditative rhythm.
Shiatsu is typically performed with the client fully clothed in comfortable attire, though at Hana Spa we adapt the session to your preference. The treatment may also incorporate gentle stretches, joint rotations, and rocking movements to further release tension and improve energy circulation. Many clients report a profound sense of calm and clarity after a Shiatsu session.
Your Shiatsu session at Hana Spa begins with your therapist asking about your current health concerns, energy levels, and any areas of discomfort. You may remain clothed in loose, comfortable clothing, or your therapist can adapt the session to use a traditional table setup with draping.
The therapist works systematically through the body, applying firm but comfortable pressure at key acupressure points. You may feel warmth, tingling, or a deep releasing sensation at certain points. The pace is deliberate and unhurried, allowing your body to respond naturally to each point of contact. After your session, many clients describe feeling simultaneously relaxed and energized, with a renewed sense of mental clarity.
Shiatsu is an excellent choice for anyone interested in holistic healing approaches. It is particularly beneficial for those experiencing chronic headaches, digestive issues, fatigue, anxiety, or general feelings of being "stuck" or depleted. Residents of Palisades Park, Leonia, and Fairview who are looking for an alternative to conventional Deep Tissue Massage will find Shiatsu offers a uniquely balancing and restorative experience at Hana Spa. Also explore our Thai Massage for another Eastern bodywork tradition, or Cupping Therapy for enhanced circulation.
Quick answers
Hana Spa is at 520 Bergen Blvd in Palisades Park, six minutes from Fort Lee and the George Washington Bridge, just across the bridge from Washington Heights.
Shiatsu guests come from Hackensack, Paramus, Leonia and across Bergen County. Parking is free on site. Without a car, NJ Transit 154 from the Port Authority Bus Terminal stops along Bergen Boulevard. Shiatsu is done clothed with no oil, so it fits easily after work. Get directions.
Yes, you can walk in for shiatsu any day between 9 AM and 11 PM; most services need no appointment.
Call ahead if you want a fixed time, particularly on weekend evenings. To request a specific therapist, call at least 24 hours ahead. Wear loose, comfortable clothing, since shiatsu is usually done clothed. Our team speaks Korean and English. Ways to book.
Hana Spa has a 4.0 rating from 7 Google reviews and more than a decade on Bergen Blvd.
Shiatsu here follows the Asian bodywork tradition Palisades Park knows well:
Answers to the questions clients ask us most about this service.