Is Ashiatsu For You?
Ashiatsu massage was a career saver for me, but is it right for you? Massage therapists have an array of options for continuing education. With so many deep tissue techniques to choose from, what makes Ashiatsu barefoot massage so unique? Fair enough, that is what this article will explain.
Answer these questions: Is deep-tissue massage wearing you out? Are you limited to how many massages you can do in a day? How about deep-tissue? Is your last deep tissue massage of the day as good as your first one? How about getting a pedicure every month that is tax deductible? If you answered yes to any of the first four questions and no to the latter, then Ashiatsu massage is for you.
Most noteworthy is the fact that your last deep-tissue massage is as good as your first. You won’t run out of gas at the end of the day. There are no injuries to incur. Clients love it. While the other deep tissue techniques that are effective, there is no comparison. So what do you do with all that knowledge? Apply it with your feet.
Do you feel burned out? Why, Ashiatsu Massage is for you.
What is Ashiatsu Massage?
First, let’s define Ashiatsu. Ashi means, “foot, ” and Atsu means “pressure.” It is a barefoot modality where the therapist uses their feet to massage a client’s body. Its deep compressive strokes are not painful, but compressive. After, Ashiatsu leaves the client in a euphoric state that lasts for hours. Ashiatsu is best known for its deep tissue application. It is also applicable for lighter Swedish. Now you know what it is, but let’s move on to the question of, is it for you?
Undoubtedly, you have seen the images of Ashiatsu and have viewed a short video or two. It is still not going to give you an accurate answer to the most crucial question. The only proper way to gauge its effectiveness is to have a treatment. Only then can you judge its worth. But in the meantime, I would like to share my experience with you.
My First Ashiatsu Experience!
My first experience with Barefoot Massage was in a spa in Frisco, Colorado. I was on my honeymoon, and I was Jones-ing for a good massage. Frisco is small, so everything is within walking distance. I walked into the first spa on the block. After perusing the menu of services, Back-walking caught my eye. Hmm…immediately I was intrigued. At first, the advertisement led me to imagine the worst. For the record, there is no actual back walking done in Ashiatsu. But of course, I was ignorant of that fact. My immediate concern was about the therapist’s size and weight. At my request, I wanted to meet this therapist before I would book an appointment.
While I knew it was lame, I needed to see the therapist. Based on the description in the menu of services; it left me no choice. If someone was going to walk on my back, I didn’t want to leave in a wheelchair. She came out and introduced herself. Whew… she was my size! After talking to her, she put my concerns at ease. I booked the soonest appointment she had. I was ready to try this.
Upon entering the treatment room, I examined the two overhead bars over the table. They looked safe enough. I was a little nervous. But my curiosity along with the therapist’s explanation superseded any contrary ideas. Even though my practice was mainly deep-tissue massage, I was not a fan of receiving it. Besides, I was on my honeymoon and did not want to be sore for the next three days, at least not from massage. I determined that I could always stop and get off the table, right?
Because I was face down, it didn’t allow me to see where she was or how she mounted the table. It felt like hands, so I wasn’t sure when she switched to her feet. She didn’t walk on me at all. The gliding compressive strokes were deep but not painful. The experience was rhapsodic. It was nothing like I had imagined. My perception of deep-tissue massage entirely changed. I had stumbled on to the Motherlode, and my life was soon to change forever!
What happened next?
After the service, I had a million questions for this LMT. Like where did she learn this incredible technique? Did it take a long time to learn? Was it hard on her body? Where could I find a class? Finally, she was happy to answer all my questions. No, it did not take long to learn. And Ashiatsu massage was much easier on her body than deep tissue massage with her hands.
The effects of the massage lasted the rest of the day. We canceled our dinner plans and ordered-in. The next morning I felt great. The best part, I was not sore at all. As a result, I didn’t waste time. I immediately registered for the next available Ashiatsu class training.
A month later, I returned to Colorado and received my certification. My clients were all excited to experience a Barefoot Ashiatsu Massage. And it pleased me to give it to them. They loved it! Most of all I was able to do deep tissue massage all day long without my hands throbbing the next morning.
Do Clients have an issue with Barefoot Massage?
What about the feet issue? Do client’s have trouble with the use of feet in their massage? I get asked this in every class. My answer is always the same. I know where your feet have been, but I do not know where your hands have been. Hands by far in comparison to feet are the filthiest due to their access to every touched surface on the planet. Have you ever gotten a cold from someone’s feet? Also, for more of the most asked questions read the blog about Ashiatsu Massage: What To Expect In Class?
What about my weight?
This question is prevalent as well. As long as the massage table is strong enough to hold both the therapists and client, there is no issue. The basic course only covers one-footed strokes.
What if I have a fear of heights?
Fear of heights is not a problem. Ashiatsu Floor Massage is the answer. There is also the Portable Ashiatsu Floor Bars to use for balance.
What about the Ashiatsu Bar Installation?
There are Overhead Bars and Floor Bars. Whatever your situation is, there is a way to install bars. Our overhead stationary bar schematics, cover five different ways to connect Ashiatsu Bars. We have the schematics for the Portable Ashiatsu Bars, as well, but they are a bit more complicated. And now we have the new Portable Ashiatsu Floor Bars. These bars are for use in the office or Mobile massage house calls. Also, the Floor Bars are excellent for outdoor events.
Where do I Find an Ashiatsu Massage Therapist?
I’m still surprised to hear a massage therapist tell me they have not experienced an Ashiatsu. Over the years, Barefoot massage has grown in popularity. And it is one of the fastest growing barefoot technique in the massage industry. It should not be difficult to find someone in your area who practices it.
Once you arrange the appointment, be sure to clear your calendar for the day. It is unlikely you will feel like doing anything else. Its long-lasting effects will leave you worthless for the rest of the day. Let us know if you can tell the difference between the use of their feet or hands. Prepare to be amazed!
Where do I find Ashiatsu Class Training?
Several groups teach Ashiatsu. The Barefoot Masters® is one of them. We have been training massage therapists in Ashiatsu for over 15 years. We have 30 instructors nationwide. Our course includes both the posterior and anterior routine. The complete primary routine taught together in one class.
What Do I Receive in a Barefoot Masters® Ashiatsu training?
We developed the first complete Ashiatsu manual. It has detailed instructions for each move. Also comes with pictures for those who are visual learners. In addition, it comes with a video of the routine for support. Our instructors teach small workshops, so you receive the utmost attention. Also, we are the only company that gives you access to those materials before you come to class. Instead of paying an extra fee, we reward you certification on last day of class free of charge. Also, we offer a complete home study with certification.
In conclusion, Ashiatsu Massage saves hands from the rigors of deep tissue massage. After 20 years of Ashiatsu, I never get tired of doing it or receiving it. You are only two feet away from relief.
Barefoot Masters® develops unique continuing education programs. We dedicate our CE’s to the saving of massage therapists hands and body. The world needs more massage, so we save the hands of massage therapists so that they can save the world!
For more information go to https://TheBarefootMasters.com
We use Bonvital Products.
