What is ashiatsu?
Ashiatsu oriental bar therapy is a deep tissue therapy commonly referred to as barefoot shiatsu, backwalking and aobt (ashiatsu oriental bar therapy). This type of massage is performed using the therapist’s bare feet rather than their hands.
Ashiatsu dates back thousands of years, spanning Asian countries and several continents. It is based on the beliefs of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
Therapists require special training to perform this modality. They must learn the art of massaging with feet while supporting themselves via the ashiatsu bars.
Benefits of barefoot shiatsu
Benefits of barefoot shiatsu are more than mere deep tissue therapy. Although clients enjoy the bodyworker backwalking their stress away, the therapist is also working with the body’s meridians (energy channels). This encourages a state of balance within the client’s body, creating the opportunity for self-healing.
This type of massage is choice for how to destress by clearing energy blockages as well as stimulating circulation. The combination makes ashiatsu oriental bar therapy an excellent massage technique for those who want deep tissue therapy while balancing their chi, or energy. The bonus is the sound state of Zen they experience within themselves.
What to expect from ashiatsu oriental bar therapy
It is not uncommon for the practitioner to begin your first ashiatsu oriental bar therapy experience with a consultation. They will inquire about your diet and exercise to evaluate your health. Be honest, as their questions are for your benefit.
Once complete, they will escort you to the room or area where you will receive your treatment.
Depending on the entity, you may or may not be in a private room. Some facilities have several sets of ashiatsu bars set up in a room to accommodate multiple clients simultaneously. In this setting, you will not disrobe. In a private setting, however, you may be asked to disrobe.
The massage therapist may use bars or other apparatus suspended above the client to support themselves. As the client, you may be laying on a table or possibly a mat or cushion on the floor.
Using the bars to support their weight and maintain balance, the bodyworker can then depict control of the depth of the pressure by using their feet, knees and thighs.
You will begin lying face down and the therapist will position themselves above you. They will be massaging with feet as they work the back and upper body first, moving gradually toward your feet.
After the back has been deliciously mulled over, having received instant stress relief, you will turn over slowly and receive the amazing treatment on the front. If you have disrobed for your barefoot shiatsu, very little oil or lotion will be used.
After your massage and how often to have an ashiatsu massage
After your ashiatsu massage, you will be thoroughly relaxed and already wondering when you can return for your next appointment. Consult with your therapist if you are working on correcting a situation as to how frequently (and how soon) you should return.
Ashiatsu is a deep tissue therapy service and you might experience tenderness in specific areas. If so, monitor how you feel and book your appointments accordingly to prevent discomfort while healing.
Many establishments offer herbal remedies or oriental medicine. If so, inquire if they have suggestions for you to improve or maintain better overall health.
Always drink plenty of water after any massage service or spa treatment. Follow your relaxation experience with a relaxing evening to reap the most rewards from your treatment.
Categories for Ashiatsu
Bodywork Treatments
Energy Healing Techniques
Types of Massage
As an affiliate, we earn a small commission for qualifying purchases via links on this site. The commission is paid by the advertiser and does not affect the price of the product or cost the consumer. It is how we help pay to keep this site free to use!