What is Ashi?
It is the most luxurious, therapeutic massage in the world, but you may not have ever heard of it. It's called Ashi and is practiced only by highly trained barefoot massage therapists who have graduated from AOBT (Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy).
Ashi (foot) -atsu (pressure) is the Japanese term meaning "foot pressure." It has been handed down from thousands of years of Asian cultures and now has been adapted to the western world.
If you're suffering from chronic pain or muscle spasms and everything else you've tried has failed, you should make an appointment for Ashiatsu treatments and you'll instantly feel the results!
This massage technique requires the therapist to glide over the body with his or her bare foot using deep compression effleurage strokes. Bars are used above the head for balance and the process is enhanced by the application of oils. The combination of pushing and pulling forces can be instrumental in relieving symptoms of chronic soft tissue damage and create a structural change.
Why is Ashi special?
Ashiatsu is much gentler and more soothing due to the use of the bare foot as the main tool. The sole, arch and heel are able to give broad and deep pressure without sharp pointy edges such as elbows, hands and fingers. As a result, the typical deep tissue massage involving knuckles and arms can be more painful and fail to generate sufficient pressure to be effective.
Benefits
Some of the benefits of Ashiatsu include pain relief, improved posture, reduced swelling and inflammation along the spine, and increased overall health and well-being. Ashiatsu also increases lymphatic flow and stimulates the body's own self-healing capabilities. You'll start feeling pain relief and better posture after just one or two treatments.
Many individuals enjoy the benefits of Ashiatsu. It is highly effective for people who enjoy deep tissue massage, athletes and those with thick musculature. The technque is also recommended for individuals who suffer from chronic neck and back pain, scoliosis, bulging or herniated discs, sciatica and degenerative disc disease.
While it is beneficial for many, some people may have health conditions that might not be right for Ashiatsu treatments. Please inform your therapist of health conditions and any medications you may be taking prior to receiving treatment, as restrictions may apply. But once you're cleared to receive Ashiatsu massage, you'll enjoy pain-free living and be able to function at optimum health.