Often presented as a «self Shiatsu massage», Do-In is a sequence of gestures and movements that stimulates the circulation of Qi through the main meridians. I like to compare it to an “energetic shower” for its relaxing and invigorating effects.
What is Do-In?
The term Do-In is the Japanese adaptation of the Chinese “Dao Yin” (導引), which refers to stretching and guiding Qi through the meridians of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). Dao Yin, a form of gentle gymnastics, maintains the body’s flexibility and balance. It is considered the ancestor of Qi Gong, which emerged less than a century ago. The Do-In sequence, the Japanese version of Dao Yin, naturally catch the attention of fans of therapeutic Shiatsu massage.
How does it work?
The active principle of Do-In relies on the ongoing interaction between the physical and the energetic, facilitated by the network of meridians described in TCM and the Qi (vital energy) that flows through it. Like Shiatsu, applying pressure or stretching on a part of the body initiates a subtle yet effective process—a wave that can be compared to a musical note. Do-In is a “composition” where notes flow together and follow a direction, sweeping through the main meridians, from the fingertips to the soles of the feet, and including the head.
How does it proceed?
The practitioner sits on the ground, either in a cross-legged position or in Seiza, and stimulates the main meridians through a succession of gentle, rhythmic percussion, rubbing, or vibrations applied along the body, following a Yin/Yang alternation. A complete session lasts between 30 minutes to 1 hour. Repetition is essential to master the sequence of gestures and develop one’s sensitivity to the flow of Qi.
Why practice Do-In?
Do-In stimulates, relaxes, and improves the overall health of the practitioner. Once the routine is mastered, it’s easy to practice Do-In regularly and independently, much like a daily shower. It is fully complementary to Shiatsu massage. Shiatsu involves a partner, namely a trained practitioner. Therefore, a Shiatsu session produces a more powerful effect. However, what it initiates in termes of Qi benefits from being maintained through Do-In.
Do-In vs Shiatsu
A Shiatsu session establishes a Yin/Yang relationship between the Shiatsushi (the practitioner) and the Jusha (the receiver). The Shiatsushi provides Yang movement, while the main role of the Jusha is more Yin: to receive the therapeutic massage as neutrally as possible. They do not resist the manipulations and do not attempt to “do it for” the Shiatsushi. In Do-In, this division of roles does not exist. One must be both sufficiently Yang (rhythmic and stimulating) when applying the various gestures and sufficiently Yin for the parts of the body receiving the impulse. This is achieved through vertical alignment of the spine, breath, and concentration.
From the individual to the collective
While Do-In is an independent activity, it can also be practiced in groups, especially during the learning phase of the gestures and their sequences. The group dynamic stimulates and encourages participants in a supportive and attentive environment. I am sometimes invited to lead collective workshops. I often choose to start these workshops by guiding a Do-In session, which is a wonderful introduction to sharing the principles of Shiatsu in a concrete way. The basic routine, accessible to all, reassures participants, relaxes the group, and creates the necessary conditions for considering other, more free activities focused on alignment, hara, and Qi.
My practice of Do-In
As a Shiatsu practitioner, I use Do-In as a personal maintenance routine, alternating it with other sports and/or energetic activities. I appreciate its minimalist nature, requiring little space and time. Its “active” dimension makes it more accessible and attractive than meditation, which demands more commitment and self-denial. I gladly recommend practicing Do-In as a simple and practical tool for enhancing well-being and health through the circulation of Qi.
Feel free to contact me if you would like an individual or group introduction to Do-In. The experience is also conceivable online.
