Ashiatsu Massage
Ashiatsu: The Power of Barefoot Massage
One day, a big CrossFit client sent me an Instagram post of a therapist standing on the table, using a fabric strap to maintain balance while applying foot pressure. He said, “Laura, this looks like something you would do!” And I thought, "You know what? It does look like something I would do!" After a little research, I knew I had to give it a try. Four months later, I was taking my first Sarga Bodywork training. A year after that, I took the advanced training in Oahu (rough life, right?) and continued refining my technique. Then in 2022, I wanted to push myself further, so I decided to try FasciAshi, a fascia-focused version of Ashiatsu, using overhead bars for better control and freedom in my movements.
Now, I combine everything I’ve learned from Sarga Bodywork and FasciAshi to bring you the ultimate in deep, therapeutic pressure using my feet. So what exactly is Ashiatsu or barefoot massage? Let me explain!
What Is Ashiatsu?
Ashiatsu, which literally means “foot pressure” in Japanese, is a deeply therapeutic technique where I use overhead bars for balance and leverage, applying broad, even pressure with my feet. This allows me to deliver deeper strokes with more control, resulting in profound relaxation, muscle relief, and improved mobility. It’s incredibly effective for relieving tension, especially for athletes or anyone experiencing tight, overworked muscles.
Unlike traditional “deep tissue” massage, Ashiatsu is combined with myofascial techniques, which focus on the fascia(the connective tissue surrounding muscles). These methods use slow, sustained pressure to create deep stretches, improve hydration, support detoxification, and restore mobility in ways that hands alone often can’t.
What to Expect in Your Session
I may use a combination of techniques and tools such as heat packs, active and passive stretching, neuromuscular therapy, trigger point work, cupping, taping, and IASTM/gua sha to ensure a thorough, restorative session.
Because of the depth and pace of this work, 90 to 120-minute sessions are ideal for optimal results.
