Ashiatsu Massage

You might be asking, “what is Ashiatsu massage?” This type of massage treatment, which has been around for centuries, has been said to be the deepest, most luxurious massage on the planet. At Refresh-ology Aesthetics and Massage Therapy, we think Ashiatsu massage is an incredible spa treatment that allows for several benefits. Ashiatsu massage is a unique technique where our specially educated massage therapists use their feet to apply deep pressure to your body. It’s often called a barefoot massage. Our therapists’ methods allow the deep tissues, joints, and muscles to be massaged while easing the nervous system. This technique feels like a mesmerizing massage with deep, broad, pressured strokes and no pain. 

Ashiatsu (pronounced awe-shee-at-sue) is best for those who are experienced massage goers and want added pressure. Due to the complexity of this massage, Refresh-ology is the only wellness center that offers Ashiatsu massage in Greenville, North Carolina. In fact, our owner, Caroline, and our long-time massage therapist, Paige, received continuing education training to provide this exclusive service to our clients. We put together a list of our top five reasons to try out Ashiatsu:

1. Reduces chronic pain and aches

Ashiatsu massage is a deep tissue compression massage through the use of the therapist’s feet. What that means is that this technique manipulates the deeper layers of soft tissue to help loosen the tissues, which helps in chronic pain reduction. This massage’s compressive stokes help flush out the inflammation that causes pain. Adhesions and tight connective tissues create much of our discomfort, which is why our therapists focused on reducing these pressures during an Ashiatsu session. 

2. Leaves little to no discomfort

While Ashiatsu massage is similar to deep tissue massage, there is one major difference. Ashiatsu massage has little residual soreness while the treatment is being performed. Meanwhile, a major criticism about traditional deep tissue massages is that they tend to hurt. While some think they “hurt so good,” others want to minimize the discomfort as much as possible.  In fact, the application of the foot allows for a more generalized dispersed pressure that is both deep and relaxing with little to no discomfort.  Many clients report that they prefer deep pressure from the foot vs the sensations they experience from thumbs or elbows in traditional massage. Because muscle tissue is manipulated is a more broad to general fashion post muscle soreness after an an Ashiatsu massage is mild.

3. Increases flexibility and circulation

Want the benefits of a long stretching or yoga session without all the hard work? Our massage therapists, specially educated in this technique, can help you out. The feet play a significant role in Ashiatsu massage; not only do they allow the therapist to pinpoint deep tissues, but the use of feet also allows therapists to use gravity to their advantage. The long gravity-assisted stokes can broaden and lengthen the muscle fibers in the body, creating more flexibility. Tissues of the body are also often stretched in two different ways during the massage, helping scar tissues and adhesions recover, increasing circulation and flexibility. Runners often find the Ashiatsu method helpful for stabilizing and keeping the knees and hips flexible.

4. Provides the deepest tissue therapy

When you receive a typical deep tissue massage, a therapist will use thumbs, elbows, hands, and other body parts to reach deep tissues. Ashiatsu techniques allow our massage therapists to get the same level, and more, of deepness with just the use of their feet. The secret is their use of gravity that was mentioned above. This also allows the therapist to retain that deep pressure longer than in standard deep tissue massages. With the longer and deeper strokes come long-lasting effects on your body. Even after the massage is over, your body will continue to increase the circulation of the blood and lymphatic systems. With these effects still taking place, many clients admit to feeling just as relaxed hours after the massage is over. Since the deepest tissues have been manipulated and the body is effectively recovering, the overall effects last longer than a traditional deep tissue. We recommend drinking lots of water and relaxing with no strenuous activities after your massage to make the most of these long-lasting effects. 

5. Decreases stress and tension

Massage therapies of all kinds can help the body let go of the stress it is holding. However, no other massage application has been proven to enhance the state of nirvana and the level of calm as Ashiatsu. These massage techniques reduce levels of cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone. Positive effects of lowered heart rate, decreased tension, and overall mental health have all been connected with Ashiatsu massages. Many of our clients say this allows for the ultimate spa therapy. And, to be honest, after the past couple of years living through a global pandemic, most of us can probably benefit from an Ashiatsu massage to help ease our daily and chronic stress.

If you’d like to learn more about Ashiatsu massage, we’d love to talk with you. It’s important to note that due to the nature of this deep pressure massage, it is not recommended for those with little to no prior massage experience. In addition, we do not offer this massage to those with certain medical conditions. Our massage therapists can provide additional details about Ashiatsu massage and can determine if you’re a good candidate for this unique experience.

Through a detailed consultation, our friendly and knowledgeable experts can work with you to create an Ashiatsu massage that meets your goals. We’ll also address any types of concerns and answer any questions you may have during this time.

Refresh-ology Aesthetics and Massage Therapy is dedicated to serving you during your spa and wellness journey. Feel free to reach out so we can discuss your massage therapy options by calling us at 252-931-1111.