‘A system of partner assisted exercises based on 'contract-relax' principles, designed to re-establish postural integrity and musculo-skeletal mobility. It also serves to rapidly correct ki imbalances within the channels’.

Sotai is a simple yet highly effective system of gentle exercises and techniques that equalises muscle tone and can correct postural distortions.  The aim of a Sotai treatment is to eliminate pain in the back, neck or shoulders, and release muscular stiffness or pain anywhere in the body. By rebalancing postural imbalances Sotai may also help with other problems affecting the inner workings of the body e.g. digestive complaints, breathing problems and so forth. 

The main principle behind Sotai is of following the line of least resistance. For example, if you have difficulty moving your neck to the left, then specific exercises based around moving the neck to the right, away from discomfort, pain or stiffness, will re-establish full mobility. This principle can be applied to any muscle, joint or area of the body

Sotai was developed in Japan in the mid 20th century by Keizo Hashimoto a Japanese medical doctor who developed the system from western physiotherapy techniques to help treat muscular aches and pains. Dr Hashimoto also noticed that when his patients postural problems where corrected that they also recovered from other long standing medical conditions as well

A Sotai Practitioner will work a client through a set of 18 techniques from foot to head gradually correcting any imbalances and relaxing tense muscles. Occasionally individual techniques will be used alone during other treatments i.e shiatsu or acupuncture to increase the effectiveness of that particular treatment.