What principles underpin the art of Shiatsu in its depth? Beyond numerous practical guides, this comprehensive manual addresses this central question, which has rarely been posed so clearly in Shiatsu literature. Drawing from over two decades of intensive international practice and teaching experience, Ivan Bel presents a thorough exploration of the foundations of Shiatsu—technically, culturally, energetically, and conceptually. In three progressively structured chapters, he guides readers from the fundamental technical principles to the person-centered body-mind theory that underlies the practice, and finally to the philosophical dimensions of natural health. Topics that often remain in the background during training and practice—such as the inner and outer preparation of the practitioner, the conscious handling of Qi and the meridians, or the influence of the environment on human balance—are explained by Ivan Bel through illustrative case studies in clear, engaging language. The result is a fundamental reference work that broadens the understanding of the essence and application of Shiatsu and encourages a more mature, freer, and simultaneously more precise practice—an indispensable companion for students, practitioners, and especially for teachers of this art of mindful touch.