You may have heard whispers about a massage where the therapist walks on your back, and it’s natural to be curious. This practice, known as Ashiatsu, is a highly refined and therapeutic technique with ancient roots. At our studio, it involves a licensed therapist using parallel bars suspended from the ceiling for perfect balance and control while applying their body weight through their feet. This method allows for a depth of pressure that is simply impossible to replicate with hands alone. The broad surface of the foot provides a comfortable, gliding compression that elongates the spine and releases deep-seated tension. Our deepfeet bar therapy services are designed to provide a truly unique and effective treatment for lasting relief.
Key Takeaways
- Ashiatsu uses your therapist’s feet for a uniquely deep massage: By using overhead bars for balance, your therapist applies broad, gliding pressure that releases tension more comfortably and effectively than the pointed tools of a traditional deep tissue massage.
- It’s the perfect solution for chronic pain and tightness: This technique excels at releasing deep-seated tension in large muscle groups like the back, glutes, and legs, helping to decompress the spine and improve your flexibility.
- Every session is tailored to your comfort and goals: Your certified therapist has complete control over the pressure, ensuring a safe and effective experience, and you can customize your massage with enhancements like hot stones or CBD for targeted results.
What is DeepFeet Bar Therapy?
If you’re searching for a massage that delivers deep, lasting relief, you might be surprised to learn the answer lies in your therapist’s feet. Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy is a unique and powerful form of bodywork where a highly trained therapist uses their feet to perform the massage. Using parallel bars suspended from the ceiling for balance and control, your therapist can apply deep, broad, and consistent pressure that you just can’t get from hands or elbows. It’s a game-changer for anyone dealing with chronic pain or tight muscles, offering a completely different kind of therapeutic experience.
Where Did It Come From?
Barefoot massage isn’t a new trend; its roots trace back centuries across different cultures. The modern technique we practice, however, is a specialized form called Ashiatsu. This style of bodywork focuses on using the feet to apply pressure, but with a refined approach. Our therapists undergo extensive training to master this art, learning how to use their body weight and the overhead bars to deliver a massage that is both incredibly deep and surprisingly gentle. It’s a thoughtful evolution of an ancient practice, adapted for today’s understanding of anatomy and therapeutic needs.
How It Works: A Different Kind of Massage
So, how does it feel? Imagine long, flowing, gravitational strokes that cover a large area at once. Instead of the pointed pressure from a thumb or elbow, the foot provides a broad, comfortable surface. This allows your muscles to relax into the pressure without tensing up. The combination of deep compression and stretching techniques helps to elongate your spine and connective tissues, which can improve circulation and create a sense of openness in your body. Many clients find that this approach helps their muscles release faster and that the relief lasts longer than with a traditional deep tissue massage.
Debunking Common Myths
It’s natural to have questions about a massage that’s a little different. One common thought is, “Will it feel weird?” Most people find that once the session begins, they forget the therapist is using their feet and simply focus on the incredible relief. Another misconception is that Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy replaces traditional massage. Think of it as another tool in our toolkit. While it’s fantastic for deep, full-body work, hands-on techniques are still perfect for more detailed work on smaller areas like the neck. It’s all about finding the right approach for your body’s specific needs.
Why It Works So Well
Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy might seem like a novel concept, but its incredible effectiveness is rooted in simple physics and a deep understanding of the human body. Unlike traditional massage where therapists rely on their own strength, Ashiatsu harnesses the power of gravity and body weight to deliver a uniquely deep and consistent massage. This approach allows for a level of pressure and fluidity that’s hard to achieve with just hands and elbows. The result is a treatment that works on multiple levels, addressing chronic tension and promoting whole-body wellness without the discomfort often associated with deep tissue work. It’s a smarter, more efficient way to help your muscles release and find lasting relief. Many people who love deep tissue work but dislike the sharp, sometimes painful pressure of elbows and thumbs find Ashiatsu to be the perfect solution. The broad, comfortable pressure of the foot allows the therapist to sink deeper into the muscle layers, providing a more profound and satisfying release. It’s a game-changer for anyone with dense muscle tissue, chronic pain, or for athletes looking for effective recovery. At its core, it’s about working with the body, not against it, to achieve incredible results.
The Power of Gravity and Bodyweight
The secret to Ashiatsu’s deep, satisfying pressure lies in how the therapist uses their body. By using overhead bars for balance and support, your therapist can apply their body weight through their feet, letting gravity do most of the work. This creates a deep, broad compression that feels completely different from the pointed pressure of thumbs or elbows. It’s a full-bodied pressure that sinks into the muscle tissue, encouraging it to relax and let go. Our highly trained Ashiatsu therapists are experts at modulating this pressure, ensuring your session is both incredibly effective and perfectly comfortable from start to finish. This technique allows for a deeper massage without the pain.
Delivering Even, Consistent Pressure
Have you ever had a deep tissue massage that felt a bit poky or uneven? Ashiatsu solves that problem. Because the therapist uses the broad surface of their foot, they can deliver long, flowing, and consistent strokes that cover large muscle groups smoothly. This even pressure helps to gently stretch and elongate tight muscles and the surrounding connective tissues, known as fascia. Instead of just targeting a single knot, the strokes work along the entire length of the muscle, promoting a more profound sense of release and relaxation. This combination of deep pressure and stretching is what makes our massage services so effective at relieving tension and restoring flexibility to your body.
How It Affects Your Whole Body
The benefits of a DeepFeet session go far beyond just your muscles. The long, gliding strokes help to decompress the spine, creating space between the vertebrae and relieving nerve impingement. This can lead to significant improvements in posture and a reduction in chronic back pain. Clients often report that the relief lasts longer and they experience less soreness afterward compared to other deep tissue methods. This is because the technique also improves circulation and stimulates the lymphatic system, helping your body flush out toxins and reduce inflammation. Our dedicated team of therapists understands how to apply these techniques to support your body’s natural healing processes for a truly holistic treatment.
What Are the Benefits?
If you’re looking for a massage that goes beyond surface-level relaxation, DeepFeet Bar Therapy might be exactly what you need. This unique modality uses the therapist’s body weight and the broad surface of their feet to deliver a deeply effective treatment. The benefits extend far beyond a typical massage, impacting your body and mind in profound ways. From alleviating chronic pain to improving your flexibility, this therapy offers a comprehensive approach to wellness. It’s a game-changer for anyone who feels that traditional massages just don’t provide the deep, lasting relief they’re searching for.
For Your Body
Imagine a massage that provides deep, consistent pressure without the poking sensation of elbows or thumbs. That’s the core physical benefit of Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy. Using overhead bars for balance, your therapist applies their body weight through their feet, delivering broad, gliding strokes. This technique allows for a deeper, more comfortable compression that helps to elongate muscles and stretch the connective tissues that surround them. The result is a full-body treatment that releases tension, reduces muscle tightness, and promotes a greater sense of physical openness and ease.
For Your Mind
The connection between physical relief and mental clarity is powerful. When your body lets go of tension, your mind can follow. Clients often report that the deep, consistent pressure of DeepFeet therapy is incredibly soothing to the nervous system, creating a state of profound relaxation that’s hard to achieve with other methods. This isn’t just about feeling good for an hour; it’s about achieving a calmer state that lasts. Because the muscle release happens more efficiently and with less soreness, you can fully sink into the experience, quieting mental chatter and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety.
Find Lasting Pain Relief
For those dealing with chronic pain, DeepFeet Bar Therapy can be truly transformative. It’s especially effective for targeting deep-seated tension in large muscle groups like the back, glutes, and legs. The broad pressure from the therapist’s feet can release stubborn knots and trigger points more effectively and with less discomfort than the sharp tools of a traditional deep tissue massage. This approach helps to significantly reduce or even eliminate chronic muscle pain, improve your body’s overall function, and restore a sense of balance and well-being that you can carry with you long after you leave the table.
Improve Recovery and Flexibility
Whether you’re an athlete, a weekend warrior, or someone who spends too much time sitting at a desk, this therapy can dramatically improve your physical performance. The long, gliding strokes help to elongate and decompress the spine, which is a welcome relief for anyone with back pain. This technique also improves circulation, which speeds up muscle recovery by delivering more oxygen and nutrients to your tissues. By stretching and lengthening tight muscles, you’ll notice a real improvement in your overall flexibility and range of motion, helping you move more freely in your daily life.
What to Expect During Your Session
Knowing what to expect can help you relax and get the most out of your massage. From the moment you book your appointment to the self-care you do at home, we want you to feel comfortable and informed. An Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy session is a unique experience, and we’re here to walk you through every step. Our goal is to provide a deeply therapeutic treatment that leaves you feeling refreshed and restored. Here’s a look at what your session will be like from start to finish.
How to Prepare for Your Appointment
To get the most from your session, a little preparation goes a long way. Make sure to drink plenty of water the day of your appointment, as good hydration helps your muscles respond better to the massage. It’s also a good idea to avoid eating a large meal right before you arrive. Come with an open mind and think about any specific areas of tension or pain you’d like your therapist to address. This preparation helps your body fully receive the benefits of the therapy, which often include faster muscle release and longer-lasting relief than you might get from other types of massage.
What Happens During the Massage
During your Ashiatsu session, you’ll lie on a comfortable, sturdy massage table. Your therapist will use overhead bars for balance and support, allowing them to apply deep, broad, and consistent pressure with their feet. This barefoot massage technique is what makes Ashiatsu so effective. Instead of the pointed pressure you might feel from elbows or thumbs, the therapist’s feet provide a gliding, compressive stroke that covers a larger area. This combination of deep pressure and stretching techniques helps to elongate your muscles and connective tissues, promoting profound relaxation and releasing built-up tension in a way that feels both powerful and soothing.
After Your Session: Self-Care Tips
After your massage, it’s important to continue caring for your body. The first step is to drink plenty of water to help flush out any metabolic waste released from your muscles. You may feel incredibly relaxed and notice profound relief from soreness and tension, especially in your back, glutes, and legs. Gentle movement or light stretching can be beneficial, but try to avoid any strenuous activity for the rest of the day. A warm Epsom salt bath can also help soothe your muscles and extend the feeling of relaxation. Listening to your body is key—give it the rest it needs to integrate the therapeutic work.
Our Commitment to Your Safety
Your safety and comfort are our top priorities. While a therapist using their feet might sound intense, Ashiatsu is a highly controlled and safe bodywork technique. Our licensed massage therapists have undergone extensive, specialized training to become certified in DeepFeet Bar Therapy. They use the overhead bars to maintain perfect balance and precisely control the amount of pressure applied, ensuring it’s always right for your body. You can learn more about our dedicated and highly trained team and feel confident that you are in skilled, professional hands throughout your entire session.
Find Your Perfect DeepFeet Session
Ready to experience the deep, gliding pressure of Ashiatsu? We believe that the best massage is one that’s designed just for you. Whether you’re looking for our classic DeepFeet experience or a fully customized session, we have an option that will meet your specific wellness goals. It’s all about finding the right fit to help you relax, relieve pain, and feel your absolute best. Let’s walk through the different ways you can enjoy this incredible therapy at our studio.
Our Signature DeepFeet Massages
Our signature Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy is the ultimate treatment for anyone who loves deep tissue work. Using overhead bars for balance and support, your therapist uses their feet to apply long, flowing, and consistent pressure. This unique barefoot technique allows for a depth that’s hard to achieve with hands or elbows, melting away tension without any sharp or pokey sensations. It’s perfect for soothing chronically sore muscles in the back, glutes, and legs. You can even share the experience with a partner by booking it as part of a couples massage, making for a truly memorable and relaxing escape.
Tailored Treatments for Your Needs
Your body is unique, and your massage should be too. While our signature Ashiatsu session is a fantastic starting point, every treatment is tailored to address what you need most. Before your session begins, you’ll have a chance to talk with your licensed massage therapist about any specific issues you’re facing—whether it’s persistent lower back pain, tension headaches, or tightness from your workout routine. They will then adapt the pressure and focus of the massage to target your problem areas effectively. This personalized approach ensures you get profound relief right where you need it, helping you leave feeling balanced and restored.
Customize Your Massage with Add-Ons
Want to take your DeepFeet session to the next level? We offer several enhancements that pair beautifully with Ashiatsu. Adding Hot Himalayan Salt Stones helps gently warm and loosen your muscles, allowing the therapist to work more deeply and effectively. The warm stones also provide soothing minerals to the skin. For extra relief from inflammation and discomfort, you can add CBD oil to your massage. This combination of deep pressure and targeted enhancements helps to elongate muscles and connective tissues, promoting a deeper sense of overall wellness and relaxation. Just let us know which add-ons you’d like when you book your appointment.
Save with Our Massage Packages
Consistent massage is one of the best things you can do for your long-term health and well-being. For our clients who want to make therapeutic massage a regular part of their self-care routine, we offer series packages that provide excellent value. Committing to a package not only saves you money on each session but also helps you stay on track with your wellness goals. Regular Ashiatsu treatments can lead to sustained pain relief, improved flexibility, and reduced stress over time. If you’re interested in learning more about our massage packages, please ask our staff when you book your next visit.
Become a Certified DeepFeet Therapist
Beyond providing exceptional massages, Nola Bliss is also the only certified training center for Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy on the Gulf Coast. We’re passionate about sharing this incredible modality with fellow licensed massage therapists who want to add a powerful and effective service to their practice. If you’re ready to learn a technique that can save your hands, extend your career, and deliver amazing results for your clients, you’ve come to the right place. We partner with DeepFeet, a leader in Ashiatsu training, to offer comprehensive, hands-on courses that give you the skills and confidence to master this unique therapy.
Explore Our Training Programs
Ready to take the next step in your massage therapy career? Our training programs are designed to guide you from novice to expert in the art of barefoot massage. We offer courses in partnership with DeepFeet, the premier company for Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage training. Their curriculum is recognized for its depth, safety protocols, and hands-on approach. Whether you’re just starting or looking to refine your technique, our workshops provide the foundational knowledge and practical skills you need to succeed. As the Gulf Coast’s exclusive training center, we provide a supportive and professional environment for you to learn and grow as a therapist.
How to Get Certified
Becoming a certified DeepFeet therapist is an investment in your career that pays dividends. The journey begins with foundational courses that cover the history, theory, and, most importantly, the hands-on application of Ashiatsu. You’ll learn how to use your body weight and gravity to deliver deep, consistent pressure safely and effectively. The focus is on proper body mechanics to protect both you and your client. Certification involves completing the required coursework, demonstrating proficiency in the techniques, and passing an exam. Once certified, you’ll join a community of skilled practitioners and have a sought-after specialization to offer your clients.
Advance Your Skills with Continuing Education
Once you have your foundation, the learning doesn’t have to stop. Continuing education is key to mastering your craft. We offer workshops designed to help you refine your technique and deepen your understanding of barefoot massage. For instance, the DeepFeet 1 workshop is a comprehensive, multi-day course for licensed massage professionals to learn the fundamentals. These advanced classes are perfect for certified therapists looking to refresh their skills, learn new strokes, and earn continuing education credits. It’s a great way to stay inspired and ensure you’re providing the best possible treatment for your clients.
Train to Become an Instructor
For seasoned therapists who have a passion for teaching, becoming a DeepFeet instructor is a rewarding path. If you’re ready to share your expertise, you can enroll in the instructor training program to learn how to teach Ashiatsu to others. This intensive program builds on your existing knowledge, focusing on advanced anatomy, kinesiology, and effective teaching methods. Through a mix of online lessons, hands-on practice, and direct feedback, you’ll gain the skills needed to lead your own workshops. It’s a fantastic opportunity to shape the next generation of Ashiatsu therapists while establishing yourself as a leader in the field.
How to Choose Your DeepFeet Therapist
Finding the right massage therapist is personal, and it’s especially important when you’re looking for a specialized treatment like Ashiatsu. The connection you have with your therapist and their specific skill set can make all the difference in your experience. Here’s how to find a practitioner who can help you get the most out of every session.
What to Look for in a Qualified Therapist
Ashiatsu is more than just a deep tissue massage; it’s a unique barefoot technique where the therapist uses their feet and body weight to deliver deep, broad pressure. Because of this, you’ll want to find a therapist who has completed specialized training and certification in Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy. Look for a Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT) with a proven track record and experience in this modality. A great therapist will have a deep understanding of anatomy and how to apply pressure safely and effectively. Don’t hesitate to check out a studio’s website to learn about their team’s credentials and passion for their work. Our dedicated team of therapists has devoted their careers to the practice of therapeutic massage.
Key Questions to Ask Before Booking
Before you commit to an appointment, feel free to ask a few questions to make sure the therapist is a good fit for you. You can inquire about their experience with Ashiatsu and how they’ve helped clients with similar concerns to yours, whether it’s chronic back pain or general tension. Ask them to describe the sensation and what makes this technique so effective for achieving long-lasting relief. A knowledgeable therapist will be happy to explain the process and manage your expectations. You might also ask how they adjust the pressure to suit different body types and preferences, which will give you a sense of their client-focused approach.
Booking Your First Session
When you book your first Ashiatsu session, you’re setting yourself up for a uniquely therapeutic experience. The combination of deep pressure and stretching techniques helps to elongate your muscles and connective tissues, which can feel incredibly restorative. During the massage, your therapist will use overhead bars for balance and support, allowing them to apply the perfect amount of pressure with their feet. Remember, this is your time. It’s important to communicate with your therapist before and during the session about any sensitive areas or if you’d like the pressure adjusted. A professional will always work within your comfort level to ensure you have a safe and effective treatment.
Customizing Your Treatment Plan
Ashiatsu is a highly adaptable style of bodywork, and a great therapist will customize the treatment specifically for you. It’s not a scripted routine. Your practitioner will use their feet to apply pressure in a way that addresses your unique needs, focusing on areas of tension while promoting overall relaxation. They should check in with you about the pressure and their technique throughout the session. You can also personalize your experience further with enhancements. For example, adding Hot Himalayan Salt Stones can introduce gentle heat to soothe muscles even more deeply, creating a truly tailored wellness plan that helps you reach your goals.
How DeepFeet Complements Other Therapies
Think of DeepFeet Bar Therapy not just as a standalone treatment, but as a powerful addition to your overall wellness strategy. Because it works on so many of the body’s systems—from your muscles and fascia to your nervous and circulatory systems—it can enhance the benefits of other health practices you already enjoy. Integrating this unique massage into your routine can help you reach your health goals faster and maintain them with greater ease. It’s about creating a synergistic effect where each part of your wellness plan makes the others work even better.
What It Pairs Well With
Because Ashiatsu Deepfeet Bar Therapy uses a combination of deep pressure and stretching, it’s an excellent partner for practices like yoga, Pilates, and physical therapy. The long, gliding strokes help to elongate muscles and connective tissues, which can improve your flexibility and range of motion, making your other activities feel more effective. It also complements chiropractic care beautifully. By releasing deep-seated tension in the muscles surrounding the spine, DeepFeet can help your chiropractic adjustments hold longer, ensuring you get the most out of every part of your wellness regimen.
Building Your Personal Wellness Routine
Incorporating DeepFeet into your regular wellness routine is a proactive way to care for your body. Many clients report not only faster muscle release during the session but also longer-lasting relief and less soreness afterward. This makes it an ideal therapy for consistent, long-term maintenance. The strokes help to elongate the spine, improve circulation, and enhance overall body function. When you work with one of our highly experienced therapists, you can create a personalized plan that aligns with your specific goals, whether that’s maintaining athletic performance, managing stress, or simply feeling your best.
How Often Should You Get a Massage?
The ideal frequency for a DeepFeet massage really depends on your personal goals. If you’re working to address chronic pain or a specific injury, you might find that more frequent sessions—perhaps weekly or bi-weekly—are beneficial at first. This can help significantly reduce chronic muscle pain and restore function. For general wellness and stress management, a monthly session is a wonderful way to keep your body feeling balanced and relaxed. The best approach is to discuss your needs with your therapist, who can help you create a customized treatment plan. You can explore all of our massage services to find the perfect fit.
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Frequently Asked Questions
I love deep pressure, but will this hurt? This is a fantastic question and a common concern for anyone who has experienced a deep tissue massage that felt a bit too sharp. The beauty of Ashiatsu is that it delivers incredibly deep pressure without the painful, pokey sensation you can sometimes get from an elbow or thumb. Because your therapist uses the broad, soft surface of their foot, the pressure is distributed over a larger area. This allows your muscles to relax and accept the deep work, providing profound relief without the wincing.
Is it sanitary to have a massage with someone’s feet? Absolutely. Your health and safety are our first priority, and we follow the highest standards of hygiene. Just as a therapist would scrub their hands and forearms before a traditional massage, our Ashiatsu specialists perform a thorough cleansing of their feet immediately before your session begins. Their feet never touch the floor after being sanitized and are used only for the massage itself.
Will the therapist use their feet for the entire massage? While the therapist’s feet are the star of the show, they won’t be used for the entire session. Ashiatsu is perfect for applying long, gliding, deep strokes to large muscle groups like your back, glutes, and legs. For more detailed work on smaller areas, such as your neck, shoulders, or arms, your therapist will use their hands and forearms to ensure you receive a complete and thorough treatment tailored to your body’s needs.
Who is this massage best for, and is there anyone who shouldn’t get one? Ashiatsu is a game-changer for anyone with chronic back or hip pain, athletes in need of recovery, or people who simply love deep tissue work and want to try something new. However, it isn’t suitable for everyone. We don’t recommend this therapy during pregnancy or for individuals with certain medical conditions like recent surgeries, breast implants within the last nine months, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. If you have any health concerns, it’s always best to chat with us before booking.
How is this really different from a regular deep tissue massage? Think of it as a difference in the tools and the quality of pressure. A traditional deep tissue massage uses smaller tools like thumbs, knuckles, and elbows to apply targeted pressure. Ashiatsu uses the therapist’s body weight and the broad surface of the feet to deliver a deeper, more consistent, and gliding compression. Many people find that this approach helps their muscles release more quickly and that the pain relief lasts longer, all without the discomfort sometimes associated with sharper deep tissue techniques.
