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Discover the profound power of Japanese medicine, a timeless tradition to transform your life

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We never make promises; we work on a person-to-person basis, and we have transformed countless lives

Learn about our integrative

process

— How Amatsu works

Amatsu is a comprehensive form of traditional Japanese medicine that integrates multiple treatments to form a complete holistic medical system. Its comprehensive model allows for broader diagnostic insights and multiple treatment options that address the patient from a 360° perspective, integrating treatments aimed at achieving breakthroughs for recovery from common and often unsolved conditions, while also aiding in preventative measures through transformative changes.

This holistic approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of the body's systems and aims to restore balance and harmony on multiple levels. By combining these diverse modalities, we can address not only the physical symptoms but also the underlying imbalances that contribute to dysfunctions of multiple types. Furthermore, the incorporation of acupuncture and other complementary therapies reflects the traditional understanding of health and wellness as a dynamic equilibrium of your whole wellbeing.

As such, Amatsu treatments encompass not only the physical manipulation of muscles and joints but also the energetic and emotional aspects of wellbeing. This comprehensive approach allows for a more personalised and holistic treatment experience tailored to the individual needs of each client.

Moreover, the utilisation of acupuncture, magnets, and moxa within the context of Amatsu, underscores the philosophy of preventative healthcare and pro-active wellness maintenance. Rather than merely reacting to symptoms as they arise, Amatsu empowers you to take an active role in your health journey by promoting self-awareness, self-care, and pro-active health-seeking behaviours.

In essence, Amatsu represents a paradigm shift in healthcare—a departure from the fragmented and symptom-focused approach of conventional medicine toward a more integrated and patient-centred model of care. By embracing the synergistic relationship between all its treatments, we offer a holistic pathway to health and healing that honours the interconnectedness of the body, mind, and spirit.

About the use of Acupuncture in Amatsu

— The difference

Amatsu is a holistic system with a wide range of treatments that go beyond acupuncture. Although our focus in this section is on explaining the acupuncture aspect of Amatsu, it's crucial to understand that Amatsu is not limited to acupuncture alone.

It is a common misconception that acupuncture is a single discipline with a uniform approach that remains the same everywhere. In reality, acupuncture encompasses various modalities, styles, techniques, and approaches, making it a diverse and multi-faceted field.

Nowadays in the UK, for example, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is one of the most commonly practiced forms and is often considered mainstream. However, it's crucial to note that the prevalence of TCM does not necessarily make it superior or the only effective approach. Similarly, the existence of other types of acupuncture should not automatically discredit TCM.

In Western medical settings like hospitals, physiotherapy clinics, and mainstream clinics, a modernised variation of acupuncture is often practiced. These modernised forms may involve a modified approach that is learned in relatively short training periods, such as weekend workshops, as opposed to authentic traditional training involving over a decade of study.

While these forms have gained popularity, it's important to understand that they may not fully represent the traditional and authentic versions of acupuncture. It is therefore essential to learn more about the specific approach and its qualifications before making a decision.

Apart from TCM and the modernised Western approach, there exists a wide range of other acupuncture modalities with their own methodologies, modalities, and objectives. Examples include Japanese acupuncture, Tung acupuncture, Korean acupuncture, Auricular acupuncture, Visceral acupuncture, and many more. However, although it is not feasible to provide a comprehensive explanation of all these different types here, our aim is to help you understand the importance of discerning consideration, which allows you to make an informed choice when seeking acupuncture treatment.

Viewing acupuncture as 'one' modality is akin to assuming that a 'doctor' is the same in every field, rather than recognising distinctions like those between a pediatrician, a surgeon, or an internist. Each modality offers unique approaches and techniques that may resonate differently with individual patients. Understanding the right approach is fundamental to gaining a proper understanding of acupuncture, hence understanding the nuances between the various modalities of acupuncture, is pivotal for receiving tailored and effective healthcare.

To illustrate the diversity within acupuncture, let's explore the differing approaches of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Japanese acupuncture. TCM often employs a larger number of needles, sometimes up to 60 in a single session, often following a prescriptive approach with pre-assigned acupoints for each condition. In contrast, Japanese acupuncture, as practiced in our approach, prioritises using the fewest needles necessary to achieve the desired therapeutic effect. It adopts a non-prescriptive approach, selecting acupoints based on the individual needs of the patient.

Furthermore, it integrates various physical treatments and after-care strategies. These distinctions in needle quantity and treatment objectives underscore the variability among acupuncture modalities. Over the centuries, many traditional practices, including traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), have undergone changes due to political and social shifts in the orient. These changes have sometimes altered the original form of traditional medicine. On the other hand, Amatsu, with its lineage of grandmasters who have diligently protected its authenticity, has remained true to its roots without significant alterations.

For more information on the impact of political and social changes on traditional practices and on the Amatsu lineage, visit [link]. Our intention is to expand your knowledge about the diverse practices within acupuncture and to encourage you to find the approach that aligns best with your needs, rather than assuming that all forms of 'acupuncture' are the same.

At our Amatsu clinic in Wimbledon, we specialise in a unique form of Japanese acupuncture that represents the culmination of ancient integrated traditions. Our approach incorporates the original techniques and principles from Chinese, Taiwanese, Korean, and Japanese acupuncture, as well as the theoretical framework rooted in traditional Taoist philosophy. Additionally, we draw inspiration from Tung's style principles and elements of Indian tradition, all of which have been meticulously preserved in their authentic forms.

Furthermore, our approach extends beyond just acupuncture practices by incorporating various physical treatments and offering comprehensive after-care advice. This holistic approach aligns with the original form of acupuncture, which, regrettably, has diminished in modern practices where acupuncture is often administered in isolation. In practical terms, our approach focuses on utilising a minimal number of needles (an average maximum of 6) while integrating whole-body Head-To-Toe bodywork to address every aspect of the individual as per the authentic traditional methods, combined with after-care advice taking in consideration your lifestyle, nutritional habits and herbal supplement choices.

We understand the importance of education and making informed choices about your healthcare. If you are uncertain about acupuncture, we recommend exploring the different types available to find the one that resonates best with you. We are always open to discussions and encourage you to contact us for further insights into the authenticity of our acupuncture approach, please refer to the paragraphs on this page. We are open to discussion at any time and welcome all our clients to reach out for a complimentary conversation and in-person explanation. Additionally, you are invited to arrange an assessment if preferred in our clinic, where you will always be warmly welcome. 

Discover how our transformative treatments are undertaken

— From Head to Toe

Our physical assessment of you, typically begins by observing, then addressing your postural alignment, this is achieved through muscle and postural testing, integral aspects of our treatment criteria. These assessments allow us to identify overall structural imbalances in your body that require restoration: This exercise will promote the overall wellbeing of you, our patient.

Subsequently, our process targets the body's energetic pathways using various micro-cosmic approaches, including acupuncture, magnets, or acupressure applied to distal regions such as the hands, feet, and ears (to mention just a few) this will stimulate recovery along the electro-magnetic pathways, also known as Chi or Ki. This practice will decrease pain, improve blood flow, and balance meridians. Magnetic therapy, for instance, is applied to specific points on the body, making our approach universally suitable for everyone, including those apprehensive towards acupuncture.

This stage is followed by a wide range of integrative physical treatments from head-to-toe, establishing and deepening corrective changes. By decreasing pain and promoting energy (Chi/Ki) activity, blood flow, and overall vitality, manual approaches are used to physically correct affected areas, including the musculoskeletal structure, ligaments, tendons, fascia, visceral regions, and addressing the mind and emotions.         

These physical treatments draw on the millennial experience of traditional Japanese medicine, such as Anma, Seitai, Shiatsu, Sekkotsu, Kenkujutsu, Kappo, Cupping, Gua-Sha, Moxa, and Massage, while also incorporating the latest research in modern methods such as Osteopathy, Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Kinesiology, Cranial-Sacral Balance, Therapeutic Massages, Herbalism, Nutrition, Hypnotherapy, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP).

This combination of traditional and modern methods results in a treatment that is far more effective than single-model treatments alone. The globality of all these modalities put together allows the practitioner to oversee every aspect of the body, from muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, fascia, organs, to functions, mobility, systems, etc. As a result, the final outcome is no longer treating one part of the body alone (like with modern modalities), but rebalance the entire status of the individual in its globality, allowing the patient to be overseen and treated at 360 degrees and from head-to-toe, helping you to recover faster and with more efficacy.

Your consultation can result in at least nine treatments undertaken and integrated all at the same time, and it goes far beyond just adding modalities together. Our approach sets itself apart from the commonplace practice of integrating treatments found in modern clinics. Rather than simply mixing or adding modalities, our integration process reaches a heightened sensitivity through a sophisticated martial arts perception called 'Shinden' . All honed through rigorous medical and martial arts training over many years.

This unique faculty empowers your practitioner to discern the most fitting approach for integrating treatments tailored to each patient's individual needs. Thus, our integration process transcends the mundane amalgamation of therapies seen in modern clinics, elevating it to a refined and nuanced art form that embraces the intricate tapestry of holistic healing. In addition to clinical treatment, we also offer after-care advice that applies the traditional Japanese Amatsu Hichibuku Goshinjutsu principle. This involves nutritional and emotional support, as well as herbal/supplement recommendations for continuous prevention, which if embraced by you, will help with changes (whether large of small) with your overall lifestyle.

This Japanese system of natural medicine integrates physical, nutritional, emotional, environmental, and energy medicine, dating back thousands of years. It emphasises a personalised approach to your health and healing, recognising the interconnectedness of body, mind, and spirit.

Our treatment is suitable for all individuals (except in certain circumstances), and we welcome everyone to book a treatment or inquire for more information. Please feel free to call us anytime. We would love to hear your story and help you transform your life.

Similarities to the western modalities

— From past to present

While our Amatsu therapy approach incorporates acupuncture, magnets, and moxa, simultaneously, our process is integrated with physical treatments, forming the core aspect of the practice. As mentioned in this paragraph regarding acupuncture, historically, acupuncture has been administered alongside a series of other treatments.

However, as times changed, these treatments became individualised, and acupuncture lost its integration with other modalities. Similarly, physical treatments were once combined with multiple approaches but have since become isolated practices over time. Indeed, our physical approach is intended to be perceived as a seamlessly integrated process alongside other modalities.

These physical treatment modalities, tested over millennia, span across various specialties, comprehensively addressing the entire body. From musculoskeletal to visceral and cranial aspects, our range of treatments aim to offer holistic care, covering the body from head-to-toe. Our modalities draw upon the rich antiquity of traditional Japanese physical medicine, incorporating practices such as Anma, Seitai, Shiatsu, Sekkotsu, and Kenkujutsu.

These modalities can be imagined as something similar to osteopathy, chiropractic, physiotherapy, kinesiology, cranial-sacral balance, therapeutic massages. By integrating these diverse techniques, our physical process aims to be highly functional and effective in addressing various aspects of the body's wellbeing, as needed.

The globality of all these modalities put together allows the practitioner to oversee every aspect of your body, from muscles, bones, ligaments, tendons, fascia, organs, to functions, mobility, systems, etc.

As a result, the final outcome is no longer treating one part of the body alone (like with modern modalities), the treatment will re-balance the entire status of the individual in its globality, allowing the patient to be overseen and treated at 360 degrees and from head-to-toe. 

Your expectations  in clinic

— What to expect

Your experience will be highlighted by a graceful process, calm atmosphere, safe space together with friendly rapport, addressing your session with exemplary professionalism, meticulous accuracy, and sophisticated understanding, combined with intuitive empathy and heartfelt care.

We will masterfully address your experience with its intelligible process, making you feel safe, trusting, and in control at all times. Each session begins with an in-depth conversation with you to understand your concerns, medical history, and current health status. We conduct comprehensive physical assessments and may recommend additional tests or imaging based on your individual needs.

The treatment unfolds with a tailored blend of integrated modalities, meticulously co-ordinated to address your unique requirements. Our practices encompass a wide range of therapies, including acupuncture, acupressure or magnets, as described here [link] . Alongside a comprehensive range of physical treatments as described here [link].

Following the session, we conduct post-check observation, with an initial physical examination, making necessary adjustments until the desired outcome is achieved. You will receive after-care advice, post-treatment exercises, and lifestyle recommendations as needed to support you in maintaining the results, to ensure a succesful recovery.

Is Amatsu suitable for all?

— Short answer: "yes"

Yes. Amatsu Medicine is suitable for all types of people. As for any modality, some conditions might not be treatable and some patients may be affected by extraordinary circumstances which  will result in them being unable to being treated.  These unusual circumstances are rare, and the practitioner will advise at the time of the consultation. Please call us to discuss your situation and identify how we can help you.

Our Patient-Centred ethos

— Patient-Centred

Amatsu's core philosophy revolves around placing the patient's wellbeing above the practitioner's ego or personal beliefs. Unlike other medical modalities that assert their methodology as the sole 'true' form of medicine, Amatsu strives to eliminate self-centredness and prioritises the patient's interests.

At our clinic, we advocate for a patient-centric approach that transcends individual methodologies. If another modality better serves a patient's needs, we humbly defer, recognising that healing knows no bounds. This ethos fosters a culture of continuous learning and growth, ensuring that our patients receive the most effective treatments available. Amatsu's vision also revolves around continuous progress and evolution.

By embracing new research, technologies, and methodologies, Amatsu stays at the forefront of advancements in holistic healthcare. While other practices may adhere rigidly to fixated visions, we adopt a flexible and adaptable approach. We remain rooted in Amatsu core principles while continuously evolving to meet the ever-changing needs of society.

While traditional medicine draws on ancient knowledge and results, Amatsu acknowledges the importance of ongoing research and innovation in addressing emerging health issues. Rather than being viewed as a rigid set of techniques or rules, Amatsu can be seen as a guiding feeling that can be applied in diverse contexts.

During treatment, a range of practices are integrated simultaneously, tailored to the individual's specific needs and the available options. Amatsu values a wide array of medical methodologies and healing modalities. Unlike traditional medicines that exclusively endorse holistic approaches and exclude Western practices, Amatsu embraces the integration also of Western medicine with referrals to other practitioners when necessary.

The focus remains on the unlimited wellbeing of the individual, without excluding any modality. When undergoing an Amatsu treatment, thorough consideration is given to ensure the best possible outcome for the patient. Amatsu selflessly and open-mindedly supports whichever approach proves most effective for the individual, in alignment with its traditional principles.

The secret history and lineage of Amatsu

— The best kept secret

"Amatsu 天津" is an ancient and sacred form of Japanese medicine, which, according to our esteemed grandmaster, Soke Dr. Masaaki Hatsumi Sensei (b. 1931), PHD, originates from the celestial realms, as implied by its meaning ‘divine harbour’. Dr. Hatsumi asserts that Amatsu has endured since time immemorial, referring to mythical origins tracing back to ancient times, alluding to potential connections between Amatsu and Noah's ark (hinting at its presumed relation to preceding civilisations).

Overall, the origin of Amatsu’s wisdom remains uncertain, with legends attributing its impartation to either the goddess Amatsu Tatara or Amaterasu-Ōmikami, the goddess of the sun and the purported ancestress of the Imperial Household of Japan. According to legend, however, Amatsu's knowledge was bestowed upon humanity through supernatural transmissions that are said to have occurred in the mountains of Japan. Historical perspectives suggest that Amatsu's roots delve deep into the Jomon Period, the earliest historical era of Japanese history, which began around 14,500 BCE.

During this epoch, King Mima journeyed to Japan with three special envoys from Babylonia, intertwining influences from distant lands. The subsequent Kofun period, ranging from about 300 to 538 AD, witnessed the consolidation of Yamato authority and the influx of diverse cultural elements, possibly even from the Indus Valley Civilisation. The enigmatic Yamabushi, revered for their supernatural powers, inhabited the mountains of Japan, blending esoteric Buddhism, Taoism, and Shinto practices into their spiritual repertoire.

Their secluded retreats became centres of learning, where martial arts were studied alongside nature and religious texts. These tales, although mysterious and unclear, remain part of the prestigious traditions surrounding Amatsu. Central to Amatsu is its development emerged from traditional Japanese martial arts, linked to the Ninja and Samurai casts, today held within the Bujinkan.

These include Togakure Ryū Ninpō Taijutsu (戸隠流忍法体術), Gyokko Ryū Kosshi jutsu (玉虎流骨指術), Gyokushin Ryū Ninpō (玉心流忍法), Kumogakure Ryū Ninpō (雲隠流忍法), Kotō Ryū Koppō jutsu (虎倒流骨法術), Kuki Shinden Ryū Happō Bikenjutsu (九鬼神伝流八法秘剣術), Shinden Fudo Ryū Dakentai jutsu (神伝不動流打拳体術), Takagi Yoshin Ryū Jūtai jutsu (高木揚心流柔体術), and Gikan Ryū Koppō jutsu (義鑑流骨法術). In particular, the branch of Amatsu derived from the Ninja school Gyokko Ryu (玉虎流骨指術), named Amatsu Tatara Hichibuku Goshinjutsu (天津 蹈鞴 秘致武九護身術), holds significance in the principles of ‘defending the self’ and the harmonisation of human nature through the cryptic ‘flower of life’ concept among the various interpretations within the Japanese language.

Throughout the centuries, Amatsu has been secretly transmitted within a concealed lineage of Grandmasters, who have diligently safeguarded its invaluable principles and authenticity due to its sacred nature. While principles of Amatsu were briefly imparted to select samurai and ninja castes of Japan in a bygone era, its exposure has largely been driven underground to preserve its authenticity in the face of changing rules and beliefs that have adversely impacted other ancient medical systems.

Nevertheless, its lineage has consistently maintained a prominent presence within Japanese castes. In fact, Amatsu's unique heritage has been intricately linked to Japan's Imperial family, certain Japanese Buddhist sects, and the esteemed military castes of Japan. The famous Japanese Shōgun (political leader) Tokugawa Ieyasu (徳川家康), renowned architect of Japan's unification during the Tokugawa era (1603-1868), orchestrated a monumental transfer of Japan's capital from Kyoto to Tokyo in part also thanks to Amatsu. Harnessing the expertise of ninja operatives, most notably the esteemed Ninja Master Hattori Hanzo (who flourished in the 16th century), Ieyasu assimilated fundamental tenets of Amatsu to fortify his wellbeing and strategic acumen, thereby fulfilling his grand vision for Japan.

Through the meticulous record-keeping of the Japanese, these invaluable pieces of information were carefully amassed and effectively shielded from the dangers of modernisation. Particularly during the Meiji period, an era marked by the Westernisation of Japan between 1868 and 1912, ancient practices were prohibited as they were perceived to hinder the country's modernisation. Consequently, numerous forms of traditional Japanese knowledge were abolished, causing Amatsu to retreat into obscurity. The knowledge of Amatsu contained in its ancient scrolls serves as mere reminders of its essence, but these principles must always undertake ongoing research and expansion, and understanding the changes in society and in the evolution of times is crucial.

Great Grandmaster Toda Sensei (1900-1958), once granted freedom in medical practice, witnessed the gradual erosion of his methods as Japan's political landscape evolved. Great Grandmaster Takamatsu Toshitsugu Sensei (1889-1972), inheritor of Toda Sensei's lineage, navigated through shifting tides, facing the near eradication of his medicinal practices amidst the rise of Western medical ideologies. Interestingly, historical parallels, such as Chinese leader Mao T’se Tung’s (1893-1976) expulsion of esteemed doctors followed by the revival of Chinese Medicine, speak to the adaptability of healing paradigms. The lineage of Dr. Hatsumi traces back to Takamatsu Sensei, whose family legacy intertwined martial arts with bone setting and herbal remedies.

Notably, Takamatsu Sensei's encounters unveil nature's inherent healing prowess. For instance, in tending to a child near the Chinese and Mongolian borders, Takamatsu Sensei invoked nature's elements, igniting a match to catalyse the child's recovery—a poignant testament to Amatsu's efficacy in unconventional settings. Takamatsu Sensei's narratives further underscore his sagacity and wit. From subduing bandits to deftly resetting fractured bones, his expertise seamlessly melded martial prowess with therapeutic intervention. His fondness for overlooked edibles and herbal infusions underscores a holistic approach to wellbeing, a tradition passed down from Hanzo Hatori himself, the storied Ninja associated with Togakure Ryu (one of three main schools of ninjutsu) . NHK's documentation of Hanzo Hatori's tutelage to the first Shogun illuminates Amatsu's fusion with strategic military principles, underscoring its historical resonance.

Such anecdotes echo the multi-faceted legacy of Amatsu, interweaving martial arts, healing arts, and strategic wisdom across generations. However, the steadfast grandmasters in charge, resolutely preserved Amatsu's authenticity, awaiting the opportune moment to re-introduce it to the world. In the span of our last two generations of grandmasters, from Toshitsugu Takamatsu to his disciple Masaaki Hatsumi, Amatsu has finally re-surfaced, once again basking in the light of day, radiating its splendour and authentic principles to redefine the essence of medicine. Several decades ago, Dr. Hatsumi unveiled this profound knowledge.

He imparted Amatsu's wisdom to three British Bujinkan practitioners: Christopher Roworth, Dennis Bartram, and William Doolan, followed by Peter King, entrusting them with his 'feeling' and 'principles' to carry forth for the benefit of future generations and the betterment of humanity. Today, Andrea Martini continues this noble legacy, having practiced Bujinkan and studied Amatsu under the guidance of Peter King, Christopher Roworth, and Dennis Bartram for approaching 15 years.

Additionally, he served as an assistant and teacher at Christopher Roworth's school for over 10 years, and humbly contributed teachings at the honourable Dennis Bartram's clinic. After receiving the title of "Teacher" from Christopher Roworth, and with encouragement to teach from Dennis Bartram, Andrea Martini continues today to humbly uphold the legacy of Amatsu medicine, remaining committed to preserving and advancing its noble authenticity.