National Regulations

The regulations of Shiatsu vary according to different national legal situations.

The experience shows that Shiatsu is practiced without any risk for the persons treated. Therefore, in some countries or regions of Europe, there are no specific legal requirements or restrictions concerning the professional practice of Shiatsu.

France, Italy, Switzerland and United Kingdom are in the midst of a process of getting Shiatsu regulated as a holistic health profession. In Austria, Shiatsu is officially recognized and regulated as a profession by the ministry of Economics. Furthermore there are regulations on a regional level (e.g. Catalonia, Tuscany, Swiss cantons).

In some countries or regions Shiatsu can also be practised in a therapeutic context.