Who we are – Shiatsu – Pizzica (summary in English)

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Paolo (+39) 320 23 73 300 (call or whatsapp)

Angela (+39) 342 12 63 481 (call or whatsapp)

Advance booking is required.

We are Paolo and Angela, two qualified Shiatsu practitioners that work together.

Membership of A.P.O.S. nr. 006997 and nr. 007113 (Professional Association of Shiatsu Operators and teachers), in Italy the major association of Shiatsu professional operators and teachers.

We work in our shiatsu studios in Florence (Firenze) and extramural (i.e. in resorts, hotels, B&Bs and similars if there is a dedicated space; reception permission is required).

Besides individual shiatsu treatment we can give a “couple of people” treatment too: a couple or a couple of friends.

In this treatment one operator treats one person, the other operator treats the other person, working in synergy and simultaneously in two places side by side.

In case of a couple, treatment can be based on rebalancing feminine and masculine energy (Yin and Yang energy) with the aim of reaching an increased armony among the partners.

(Only for “couple of people” treatment or extramural treatment: in summer whether and when it is possible treatment could also be open-air, if requested)

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Shiatsu and the importance and effectiveness of contact

Shiatsu is commonly considered a form of “massage”, actually it is not a massage since it does not use oil and the person receiving the treatment is dressed.

It was developed in Japan in the Edo era, Meiji era and Taisho era (in those ages called Anma, Anpuku), with origins in ancient (sixth century a.C.) indian and chinese disciplines and manual body work (Yang-sheng, Àn-mó), which is applied through loose clothing.

A century ago it was canonized and given the name Shiatsu, in Japanese language meaning finger pressure.

Shiatsu is considered a holistic treatment, using physical techniques that benefit the mind and body.

With its gentle but deep contact it involves gently working specific points on the body, with the aim of restoring the flow and balance of energy and promoting health and well-being.


Treatment lasts about 50 minutes and it will generally take place on a padded floor mat or futon, alternatively on a massage table.

We will ensure you are positioned comfortably, before applying a variety of different techniques, which may include holding, or applying pressure with the palms, thumbs, finger, elbows, knees or feet.

Shiatsu may help to promote relaxation and therefore relieve the strains of daily life, post-walking/hiking/jogging/cycling fatigue, muscle tensions and contractures, aid sleep.

In addition to being regularly used by thousands of people all over the world, a variety of charities and hospitals in Italy are experiencing shiatsu to support patients as well as health operators to help them maintain their general wellbeing.

Unlike many other countries (one above all Japan where it is a practice widely accepted in the National Health System), italian law (L. n. 4/2013) considers shiatsu not being a medical discipline, therefore shiatsu must not be used in place of conventional medical care.

Always consult a GP (i.e. primary care physician, medical practitioner, medical officer) or other health professional for medical attention and advice.

In Italy: https://www.prefettura.it/roma/contenuti/Assistenza_sanitaria_per_cittadini_stranieri-4940.htm

In Tuscany:

https://www.uslcentro.toscana.it/index.php/altri-servizi/assistenza-italiani-all-estero-e-stranieri-in-italia/2003-assistenza-stranieri-in-italia

Paolo Morelli

Angela Galati

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Pizzica and Tamburello

Angela is also a Pizzica teacher, Angela and Paolo they both play tamburello (i.e. tambourine, a frame drum with jingles attached to the shell).

Pizzica (Italian pronunciation: [‘pittsika]) is a traditional folk dance of the south Italy, it’s popular, funny and joyful!

It is from the Salento peninsula in Puglia (a zone of southern Italy, where Angela is from) and it’s part of the larger family of tarantella; nowadays it is called Pizzica but the ancient name was Pizzica Pizzica.

A Ronda of Pizzica is a folkloristic moment. A group of people fit the shape of a circle: musicians play tamburellos, the choir sings loud and in the center one or two couple dance. It’s a joyful and unforgettable time!

During summer Pizzica and Tamburello classes, and Ronde are open-air.

To join a class advance booking is required.

Please call or (better) write a whatsapp message:

Angela (+39) 342 12 63 481

See the section “Events” too.