Return to Your Center

Kumiko Kanayama is a Shiatsu Grandmaster, educator, and Founder of the Five Lights Center of Shiatsu in New York City—the longest-running Japanese Shiatsu center in the United States. For more than 40 years, she has dedicated her life to practicing, teaching, and preserving Shiatsu, a traditional Japanese healing art rooted in compassionate touch, energetic balance, and respect for the body’s natural wisdom. Born and raised in Japan, Kumiko began learning Shiatsu, Makko Ho, and traditional Japanese healing practices from her grandmother, Yasuyo Ohashi, and her grandfather, Sahei Ohashi. After moving to New York City, she continued her training with her uncle, internationally recognized Shiatsu Master Wataru Ohashi. Drawing upon this family lineage and decades of hands-on experience, Kumiko developed Intuitive Shiatsu™, an approach that integrates traditional techniques with deep listening, presence, and sensitivity to each person’s unique energy. Kumiko has taught throughout the United States, Europe, and Asia, guiding students and practitioners from diverse backgrounds to reconnect with their bodies, strengthen their vitality, and cultivate greater physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Through Shiatsu, Makko Ho movement, meditation, and self-care practices, she creates welcoming experiences that are accessible to both beginners and experienced practitioners. Kumiko believes that healing begins with presence, awareness, and compassionate touch. Her teaching offers not only practical techniques, but also a philosophy for living with greater balance, connection, and care.