Find Ashiatsu Massage Therapists near you

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FAQs:

What is Ashiatsu Massage?

Ashiatsu is a massage technique that involves the application of the practitioner’s feet, rather than the hands or arms, to a patient’s body.  In Japanese, Ashi means foot, and atsu means pressure; so it literally translates to foot pressure. During an Ashiatsu massage, therapists use their bare feet to deliver deep compression, long gliding strokes, and/or assisted stretching.  Reading that you might feel apprehensive about receiving an Ashiatsu treatment.  You may wonder if having your back walked on will be intense, painful, or even scary.  Don’t worry, though!  Ashiatsu therapists have full control over how your body is treated, and the massage is tailored to your needs just as a deep tissue or Swedish massage would be.

What Does an Ashiatsu Massage Do?

Ashiatsu massage is a deep tissue compression massage through the use of the therapist’s feet. What that means is that this technique manipulates the deeper layers of soft tissue to help loosen the tissues, which helps in chronic pain reduction. This massage’s compressive stokes help flush out the inflammation that causes pain. Adhesions and tight connective tissues create much of our discomfort, which is why our therapists focused on reducing these pressures during an Ashiatsu session.

How Does Ashiatsu Work?

Ashiatsu is performed on a massage table. During treatment, the therapist uses the parallel bars overhead for balance while applying slow, gliding foot pressure and compression to strategic points along the spine and body. Ashiatsu’s one and two-footed strokes distribute pressure evenly over a large area of the body, providing a deep and relaxing massage without the pain often associated with traditional deep-tissue massage. When properly applied, Ashiatsu techniques elongate the spine and surrounding muscles, as the gliding strokes made with the feet produce a “push-pull-pumping” effect.  This results in compression of the soft tissue surrounding the joints, which promotes mobilization, allowing the spine to resume its natural position.

Is Ashiatsu Massage Effective?

As a deep tissue compression massage, Ashiatsu massage is incredibly effective in pain reduction. This type of massage goes below the surface layers, manipulating the deeper layers of soft tissue. In addition to this, the pressure boosts circulation, which has the effect of reducing the kind of inflammation that is associated with chronic pain. Furthermore, it allows for the release of connective tissues, which are responsible for much discomfort people typically feel. This makes it possible for realignment to occur. This type of massage is particularly suitable for easing long-term back pain associated with poor posture, muscle strain, or degenerated or bulging discs.

Is Ashiatsu Safe?

When done by a Certified AOBT Therapist, Ashiatsu is safe, effective, and painless, not to mention profoundly relaxing. The amount of pressure is carefully monitored throughout the session, and easily adjusted for the client's comfort.

What to Wear to an Ashiatsu Massage?

Ashiatsu and Chavutti (deep tissue) sessions are best received when the client undresses completely. You may undress to your comfort level, but remember, less is more so that the therapist can fluidly glide from head to toe without getting caught on fabric, and avoid staining your clothes with our oil and creme. You will always be safely and warmly covered by a sheet with only the area being worked uncovered – never inappropriately exposed.

What’s the Difference Between Shiatsu and Ashiatsu Massage?

Both Shiatsu and Ashiatsu originate from Japan. They share influences from traditional Chinese medicine and use pressure in their technique. Both aim to restore, energize, or stabilize energy channels. They differ in how practitioners apply pressure on their clients. “Shi” in shiatsu means finger, and “ashi” means foot. Ashiatsu, also called barefoot massage, involves using bare feet to apply strokes, assisted stretching, and deep compression.

What Modality is Ashiatsu Associated With?

Ashiatsu includes a combination of Swedish, myofascial, and compression massage strokes. It includes long gliding strokes associated with Western or Swedish massage and aspects of the ancient Eastern techniques and philosophies of Shiatsu and Ayurveda. Thai techniques stretches, and compression may also be used.

How Often Should I Get a Massage?

If you are just looking for some occasional relaxation, then a session every 3-6 weeks may be fine for you. However, if you are looking to address a specific condition, then it is recommended to go more frequently at first and then slowly taper down to a maintenance schedule. Sometimes more frequent 30-minute sessions can be effective until your goals are met and a maintenance schedule is in place.

Is Ashiatsu For You?

Clients of every age and size can benefit from this deep tissue massage, famous for back and hip pain relief, and deep relaxation. Ashiatsu is particularly popular for people who enjoy deep tissue massage, athletes, and individuals with thick musculature. It is also recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic neck and back pain, scoliosis, bulging/herniated discs, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease. Although beneficial for many, Ashiatsu is not for everyone.  It is not recommended during pregnancy, within 6 weeks of any surgery, or within 9 months of breast implants.  Please discuss any potential health concerns with me before trying Ashiatsu, we can work together to see if this work is right for you.

History of Ashiatsu

With reports of massage being performed with the feet from China, Japan, Fiji, Hawaii, India, Tonga, and Thailand for over 3,000 years, Ashiatsu appears to be a global therapy! Beginning as an in-home practice, with family members massaging the person on the floor or mat with their feet, Ashiatsu has been adapted to studios and massage tables. This original style was not very structured at all, with family members getting creative as they worked, bringing their own personalities and special techniques into the massage. 

When Ashiatsu was in its infancy, practitioners were more interested in Chi (energy), than soothing aching muscles. In traditional Ashiatsu, “people follow the flow of the yin meridians coming up from the earth and then the yang meridians coming down from the heavens,” explains Barbra Esher, director of education for the American Organization for Bodywork Therapies of Asia (AOBTA). With the primary focus being the body’s energy map, many of the early forms of Ashiatsu were not considered massage. Instead, this therapy was considered a healing art, passed down through the generations.

Benefits of Ashiatsu Massage

During Ashiatsu massage a specially trained therapist uses his or her feet to apply deep pressure to the body. It's often named "barefoot massage" and allows the deep tissues, joints, and muscles to be massaged while easing the nervous system. What does it actually feel like? Imagine a mesmerizing massage equipped with deep, broad strokes, and minimal soreness. Find out why the feet have it, and how it can benefit your practice.

1. Reduces chronic pain

Ashiatsu massage is a deep-tissue compression massage. Deep tissue massage has been effective for pain reduction because it manipulates the deeper layers of soft tissue relieving muscle tension. Loosening up tension in tight muscles helps to increase circulation, which in turn flushes out inflammation that causes pain. Adhesions and tight connective tissues create much of our discomfort, which is why therapists tend to focus on reducing these pressures during an Ashiatsu session. 

2. Improves flexibility

Scar tissue and adhesions can form from past injuries, stress, and overuse. All of these conditions respond well to the long, gravity-assisted strokes used with the Ashiatsu massage technique. The feet play a significant role in Ashiatsu massage; not only do they allow the therapist to pinpoint deep tissues, but the use of feet also allows therapists to use gravity to their advantage. The long gravity-assisted strokes can broaden and lengthen the muscle fibers in the body, creating more flexibility. Tissues of the body are also often stretched in two different ways during the massage, helping scar tissues and adhesions recover, and increasing circulation and flexibility.

3. The deepest deep-tissue massage possible

Traditional deep tissue massage employs the use of thumbs, fists, and elbows. Effective, but not always the most comfortable. In contrast, Ashiatsu massage uses the foot and feels like a giant hand, with the heel of the foot acting as a giant thumb. Utilizing feet allows the therapist to retain that deep pressure longer than in standard deep tissue massages. With the longer and deeper strokes come long-lasting effects on your body. Even after the massage is over, your body will continue to increase the circulation of the blood and lymphatic systems. With these effects still taking place, many clients admit to feeling relaxed hours after the massage is over. Since the deepest tissues have been manipulated and the body is effectively recovering, the overall effects last longer than a traditional deep tissue massage. 

4. Reduced soreness

While Ashiatsu massage is similar to deep tissue massage, there is one major difference. Ashiatsu massage has little residual soreness while the treatment is being performed. Meanwhile, a major criticism about traditional deep tissue massages is that they tend to hurt. While some think they “hurt so good,” others want to minimize the discomfort as much as possible. In fact, the application of the foot allows for a more generalized dispersed pressure that is both deep and relaxing with little to no discomfort. The gentler but deeper application of barefoot massage does not damage superficial tissues or cause bruising, so clients do not experience the same residual soreness experienced with traditional deep tissue massage.

5. Less stress and tension

If you are looking for the ultimate in relaxation, you've found it with Ashiatsu. It's a powerful tool to have in your massage technique toolbox and can lessen your clients' stress levels through reduced levels of cortisol, the body's main stress hormone. Positive effects including lowered heart rate, decreased tension, and overall mental health have all been connected with Ashiatsu massages.

How to Prepare For Your Ashiatsu Massage

Full body weighted massage is a more intense treatment which means clients need to know what to expect and how to prepare when they come for their first appointment.

1. Consider if Ashiatsu is Right for You

Clients of every age and size can benefit from this deep-tissue massage. Ashiatsu is popular for people who enjoy deep tissue massage, athletes, and individuals with thick musculature. It is also recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic neck and back pain, scoliosis, bulging/herniated discs, sciatica, and degenerative disc disease. Although beneficial, Ashiatsu is not for everyone. It is not recommended during pregnancy, within 6 weeks of any surgery, or within 9 months of breast implants. Please discuss any potential health concerns with us before trying Ashiatsu, we can work together to see if this work is right for you.

2. Drink Water Beforehand

The best way to prepare for an Ashiatsu massage is to drink plenty of water. You should drink even more water than the daily recommended amount- up to 12 glasses of water per day for three days leading up to the massage. This will ensure that the body is properly hydrated and ready to release the toxins.

2. Know What to Expect During the Session

An Ashiatsu massage is typically 60-90 minutes in length and is done on a massage table and with the use of oil or lotion. Underwear is optional though not recommended. The therapist will clean and warm their feet and use the parallel bars overhead for balance while applying slow, gliding foot pressure and compression to strategic points along the spine and body. The therapist may also incorporate stretching, range of motion techniques, or hands-on deep tissue massage. We encourage you to keep the therapist informed about any sensations of discomfort. Ashiatsu sessions are known for being intense, but they should never be painful.

4. Drink Water After

It is also very important that you drink plenty of water immediately following your massage. Drinking a lot of water will help your body flush out all the toxins that are released during your session. If you don’t drink enough water, those toxins could be reabsorbed by your body, which can compound your health problems. Drink at least eight to 10 glasses of water per day for the two days following your massage. Not only will the water help to flush out toxins, but it will also help to relieve the muscle soreness you may experience after such an intense massage.

What to Expect During an Ashiatsu Massage

Before the session, you’ll receive a pre-consultation so the therapist can determine your body’s needs and goals.  Depending on those, you may be asked to undress or remain fully clothed.  If your session is going to involve the use of lotions and gliding techniques, you can expect to remove at least some of your clothing; with that said, you’ll get the most complete treatment if you remove everything since your gluteal muscles can really benefit from some Ashiatsu gliding!  Should your session only involve compression and stretching, you might be clothed the entire session, giving the treatment a Thai massage feel.

As with most massage modalities, Ashiatsu is performed on a flat massage table.  You’ll most likely be asked to lie face down for the majority of the session, with a little bit of time spent face up.  And no, you are not going to have your stomach stepped on while you’re face up!  A supine Ashiatsu massage generally involves stretching your legs or compressing your shoulders, but you’ll get some nice gliding on your forearms and out-turned thighs/calves too!

So let’s take a few steps back to just after your pre-consultation.  After you’re given time to situate yourself, your therapist will return to the massage room to begin the session.  You’ll be draped securely, but expect to have each side of your body a little more exposed than it would be during a Swedish or deep tissue massage.

For an Ashiatsu massage with gliding techniques, the session may start with the application of lotion or oil.  This might be the only time the therapist applies his/her hands to your skin.  If you’re fully clothed, the session will lightly start with compression.  Following the introductory strokes, your therapist will suspend his or herself above your body through the use of ropes or bars attached to the ceiling.  The equipment installed above allows a therapist to balance oneself and control the amount of body weight applied.  The practitioner will let the heels, arches, and balls of the feet sink into your muscles, and from there you’ll communicate the right amount of pressure.  Like with any massage, you’ll likely have areas of the body that can handle more pressure than others.  So always be communicative and honest about what you need.

While most Ashiatsu techniques are assisted by the use of bars and ropes, the massage can also be performed with the therapist seated on a chair.  Certain parts of your body, such as the shoulders or calves, may be stretched or compressed while the therapist sits on a stool and pushes his/her feet into the area.

What Happens During an Ashiatsu Massage Session

The Ashiatsu massage takes place on a massage table. The client is dressed in only their underwear and covered by sheets and blankets to preserve their modesty. The therapist will first apply the oil, gel, or cream to the client’s body using light motions and other massage therapy techniques.

Thereafter, the therapist will stand on the table and “swing” using parallel bars installed above the table. They will be able to perform several massage maneuvers with precision, using gravity as a tool to apply pressure. The therapist will often use one foot to perform the massage, while the other remains on the table or on a bench to partially support their weight.

With the help of the bars, the therapist adapts the pressure according to the client’s requests. The larger surface of the feet sometimes feels like being massaged by big hands. Compressive, large, and fluid movements will be paired with more targeted pressure in the case of a more therapeutic massage.

What Not to Do After a Massage Therapy

Here is a checklist of the things you should not do after getting massage therapy. Doing these things after a massage cannot prevent you from getting the maximum benefits from massage therapy. We have listed ten (10) things that you should not do after a massage.

1. Not Drinking Enough Water

After massage therapy, decreasing your water intake after the massage therapy is not ideal. Massage therapy can help to detoxify and rehydrates your skin. You must drink enough water to assist the hydration and detoxification process.

2. Take A Shower Immediately

By taking a shower immediately after your massage therapy session, you will wash off the massage oils. These massage oils are not yet completely absorbed by the skin cells. It is best to shower after an hour of your massage therapy session. Let the message oil sit and absorbed your skin cells within an hour.

3. Taking a Hot Shower

After your massage therapy, we know that taking a hot shower is tempting. However, if you are suffering from a muscle injury, it will increase inflammation. You have to skip first taking a hot shower. It is better to use cold water for pain relief. Moreover, it is ideal to use warm water when taking a shower. This can help to relax your body.

4. Eating A Large Meal

After a massage, you may feel hungry. This happens due to the increase of blood circulation, which maximizes body systems function including, our digestive system. And, by eating a large meal, you will end up feeling bloated, sluggish, or lethargic. It is best to eat a light and healthy snack to feel more energized after a massage.

5. Drinking Coffee

After relaxing massage therapy, you may be in the mood to take a great cup of coffee. However, drinking coffee after a massage is not a good idea. You cannot maximize the detoxification and rehydration process. You need to wait a few hours after your message before drinking a cup of coffee. This can help you avoid dehydration. Moreover, it is best to drink your coffee the next day and rehydrate yourself by drinking enough water.

6. Drinking Alcohol

Drinking alcoholic beverages cannot encourage the hydration and detox process. It can cause dehydration. You have to avoid drinking alcohol for a day. It is best to drink enough water to promote hydration and to help flush toxins. Moreover, by avoiding alcohol, you can prevent next-day soreness.

7. Doing Strenuous Exercises or Activities

After a relaxing massage, you may feel energized to go to a gym and do some strenuous exercise. However, this can lead to muscle soreness. Moreover, doing some strenuous activities can injure your muscles. Avoid doing some strenuous activities after your massage therapy. It is best for your body and mind to relax. You can do some light activities – watch some movies or read some good books – chill and relax! Moreover, after a massage is the best time to hibernate. You can nap for a while.

8. Stressing Yourself Out

One of the main benefits of massage therapy is helping you manage your stress. It aims to reduce your stress. However, not avoiding things that cause you to stress can make you feel anxious, which cannot help your body and mind to continue the relaxation mode. After massage therapy, you should create a plan for the day. You have to make enough ‘me-time’ or self-care time. Moreover, you have to schedule your day as a low-stress one. For example, make sure not to have any other meetings or errands after a massage. Take a rest!

9. Forget to Stretch

You may feel that your body is so relaxed after a massage. It also helps to loosen your stiff muscles and knots. However, if you forget to stretch after a massage therapy session, you can’t prolong this effect. After a relaxing massage session, make sure that before you get off the massage table, do some moderate stretches within a minute or two. You can do some lunges, shoulder, and torso rotations, and toe touches. You may also continue doing some moderate stretches at home.

10. Not Doing the Homework Assigned by the Therapist

If you forget to follow the advice of a massage therapist, you will decrease the benefits that you can get from massage therapy. Follow the advice and instructions of your massage therapist to get the most out of your massage therapy session. If your therapist assigned some stretching, stretching, or some movement-based exercises – don’t forget to do them! You have to do your homework to gain the long-lasting effects of massage.

Contraindications to Ashiatsu Massage

Contraindications to Ashiatsu massage are the same as most other techniques: fever, infection, wounds or skin problems, and a history of cardiac disorders. Some extra precautions due to the more present pressure of Ashiatsu massage will have to be taken into consideration. Among these, we find:

- Pregnancy;

- Breast augmentation;

- Recent surgery of the eyes;

- Arthritis;

- Herniated disc.

In addition, the therapist must consider the total weight supported by the massage table. It is important to consider the weight of the therapist, the client, and the weight added by the work.

Massage Therapist Duties and Responsibilities

A massage therapist is responsible for treating clients through soft tissue manipulation while maintaining a safe and relaxing experience. The therapist should be good at perceiving clients' wishes and needs through spoken language, body language, and other cues and modifying their treatments accordingly. They usually report to the owner or manager of the business.

Here are some typical duties and responsibilities of a massage therapist.

- Provide 30-60 minute massages to clients by appointment

- Guide clients through service offerings and determine which massages would benefit them most

- Take a detailed client history and note any health conditions

- Evaluate clients to determine painful or stressed areas of the body

- Advise clients on stretching, strengthening, or relaxation methods

- Suggest future massage appointments and regimes to clients

- Listen to clients during appointments and adjust technique as they desire

How to Find a Massage Therapist

Like choosing other healthcare professionals, it's important to be a conscious consumer when selecting a massage therapist. Ask your primary care provider or someone else you trust to recommend a reputable business or therapist.

Don't be afraid to ask a potential massage therapist questions such as:

- Are you licensed, certified, or registered?

- What are your training and experience?

- How many massage therapy sessions do you think I'll need?

- What's the cost, and is it covered by health insurance?=

A skilled therapist has a vast toolbox of techniques that can be incorporated based on your needs, and he or she will respond and modify these techniques based on your feedback. Massage therapy is safe and effective for people of all ages. It's not only a feel-good way to indulge or pamper yourself. It's a powerful tool to help you take charge of your health and well-being, whether you have a specific health condition or are looking for a stress reliever.

Sources:

Moyer Total Wellness

Custom Craftworks

Refresh-Ology

Canyon River Spa

RMPQ

North Country Chiro

Heeling Sole

Medical News Today

Mayo Clinic

Camino

Balanced Gravity

The Wellness Center

Evergreen

Florida Massage

 

The content herein is provided for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Medical information changes constantly, and therefore the content on this website should not be assumed to be current, complete or exhaustive. Always seek the advice of your doctor before starting or changing treatment. If you think you may have a medical emergency, please call your doctor or 9-1-1 (in the United States) immediately.