The root word “Ashi” means”foot” and “Atsu” means “pressure”, so together they symbolize “foot pressure”.
Brought into the mainstream U.S. spa and massage industry as ashiatsu Oriental bar therapy in 1999 by Ruthie Hardee, this Western application was derived from a myriad of classic sources.
Using parallel bars, suspended from the ceiling for support the therapist utilizes gravity-assisted pressure using her body weight, while her foot slides effortlessly over the contours of the clients body giving a deep tissue compression massage.
One of the biggest complaints in Deep Tissue Massage is that the therapist did not go deep enough. In traditional deep tissue massage the therapist uses knuckles, fists, forearms and elbows to apply more pressure. The elbow is the strongest part of the human body and that's why it works the best. However, a lot of people experience pain and discomfort when the elbow is used. Ashiatsu alleviates this problem without causing the pain of a pressure point.
I’m afraid of having someone stand on me?
Certified therapists use overhead bars to regulate the amount of pressure the client receives in a session. If it hurts--TELL YOUR THERAPIST! Massage therapists are trained to read the body, but they're not psychic. When in doubt or pain, communicate.
Are there certain people who should not receive Ashiatsu?
YES. This deep, compressive massage technique is not suitable for:
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Pregnancy or trying to become pregnant
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Recent eye procedures, ex.lasik within last week
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Breast implants within last 9 months
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Acute inflammation or injuries
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People taking Coumadin, Lavanox, Heparin or heavy aspirin usage
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Uncontrolled high blood pressure, heart condition, pacemaker, shunt or stint
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Tuberculosis, thrombosis, aneurysm, kidney disorders, recent bowel or hernia surgery
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