Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage: A Must Try

Ashiatsu Massage

If your goal is a deep, highly effective massage to relieve stubborn achy muscles and pain, then ashiatsu could be right up your alley. What makes this massage highly effective is the fact the massage therapist uses their foot and body weight to deliver deep, consistent pressure, making this technique a level up from a deep tissue massage.

So if you enjoy a deep tissue massage, you might want to look into this one. Let’s take a closer look at what exactly is ashiatsu and all its benefits.

What is Ashiatsu Massage?

Having been around for centuries, this massage type is said to be the deepest, most luxurious massage. Why?

Because this ashiatsu allows the massage therapist to apply deep pressure on stubborn knots, joints, and muscles while easing the nervous system using their feet instead of their hands.

This technique feels like a mesmerizing massage with deep, broad, pressured strokes and no pain.

Because ashiatsu massage is a high-level modality, the massage therapist has to balance pressure with effectiveness and safety, meaning the therapist must be well experienced and highly trained in this technique.

Benefits of Ashiatsu Massage?

This massage originates from the Japanese language which means “foot pressure”. This allows the massage therapist to work with gravity instead of against it to deliver a deeper, fluid, more effective therapeutic massage without causing pain or discomfort.

Ashiatsu is well suited for those who get massages regularly and want added pressure, or just want to try something different.

Here are a few benefits our clients are noticing and what you can expect:

Reduced Chronic Pain and Aches

The deep tissue compression applied by the massage therapist feet helps target the deeper layers of soft tissue which helps flush out inflammation, hence reducing chronic pain.

Increases Circulation and Flexibility

Ashiatsu uses gravity to our advantage meaning the massage therapist can pinpoint troublesome deep tissues and stretch the muscle fibers creating improved flexibility. At the same time this improves blood flow.

Improves Posture and Detoxifies

Ashiatsu barefoot massage has helped many improve their posture and range of motion. The long fluid strokes also help flush the body’s lymphatic system, which helps release metabolic waste much more effectively.

Deep Tissue Without Discomfort

Traditional deep tissue massages rely on intense hand, elbow, and forearm pressure, which to some, may feel discomforting. Surprisingly, one of ashiatsu massage’s primary advantages is the ability to deliver deep tissue massage without discomfort.

What Does Ashiatsu Massage Do?

While the majority of massage techniques consist of using the hands, ashiatsu stands out among most of them when it comes to deep tissue. Therapist hold onto bars attached to the ceiling (or massage table) for balance and control, employing compressive and gliding movements to address tension or knots in clients’ bodies.

Ashiatsu massage engages more muscle fibers since the therapists uses their feet to deliver the pressure needed. Allowing the therapist to target muscle imbalances. The amount of pressure varies by the client’s needs and preferences so there’s no need for concern of pain or too much pressure.

This massage is very popular among athletes suffering from chronic pain by improving blood flow and oxygen delivery to muscles for quicker recovery or improved overall health and performance.

Making it a top choice among those seeking comprehensive relief and relaxation!

Hence why not all massage therapists are qualified to perform this highly-skilled massage modality.

Who Should Try Ashiatsu?

If your preferred massage therapy center offers Ashiatsu Massage and you enjoy deep tissue, then give it a try!

The relaxation and post-massage benefits such as feeling amazing, relaxed, and on top of the world (as some describe it) alone makes trying a barefoot massage worthwhile.

As mentioned before, this is a highly-skilled technique and not every massage therapist or wellness center offers it. However, there are some instances where someone may need to avoid this massage.

Particularly those who:

  • Had a recent surgery or fracture
  • Are pregnant
  • Acute liver or kidney disorders
  • Certain medications
  • or any specific medical issues which requires doctors approval

Communication between you and your massage therapist is key! Your licensed massage therapist will know if ashiatsu is appropriate for you.

Ashiatsu Massage in Rockford IL

Ashiatsu Massage Now Available in Rockford, IL

At Bodycraft Wellness we are super excited to offer ashiatsu massage in Rockford, IL Loves Park, Machesney Park and surround area. Usually those who experience a barefoot massage won’t go back to a traditional massage!

So it’s totally worth trying out.


Jamie Fanara Bodycraft Wellness Massage Center

About The Author: Jamie Fanara

Jamie Fanara is the owner of Bodycraft Wellness & Massage Center and has been a professional massage therapist since 2005, Certified Lymphedema Therapist, BCTMB board approved and NCBTMB Approved Provider & Assigned Massage School Program Director in Illinois. Visit her about page for more info