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Health Touch Spa | ||
What is Ashiatsu? Ashiatsu “foot pressure” is an ancient form of bodywork and a healing art dating back to the fifth century. It consists of the therapist massaging the client with bare feet, using different strokes with the sides and soles of the feet as well as the toes. The combination of deep soothing strokes and compression techniques provides maximum relief to the client without the usual discomfort or pain commonly associated with deep tissue massage. | ||
What are its Benefits? Ashiatsu involves deep even pressure with the foot to gently compress and stretch the muscles, effecting structural change to the soft tissues. The deep soothing strokes provide complete relaxation to the client, open chakras, release toxins, and stimulates the body’s mechanisms of self healing. Clients experience improved posture and movement, pain and stress relief, increased muscle flexibility, and restored range of motion. | ||
 | What are the roots of Ashiatsu? Traditionally it is associated with Keralite foot massage called “Chavutti Thirummal” -which was done in Kerala, India and developed as a healing art in conjunction with martial arts training. Barefoot massage spread throughout the Asian and Pacific areas developing different forms and styles in various locations - Chinese & Japanese barefoot shiatsu, Fijian foot massage, and Thai massage. These types of massage are now becoming established as a mainstream technique in western massage. Barefoot massage can be administered to a client on the table or a floor matt with or without an oil or cream lubricant. The therapist massages using one or both feet while standing or seated, and may use an overhead system such as bars or rope for balance. Originally the barefoot massage was a technique for posterior work only. | |
| How is Ashiatsu performed at Health Touch Spa The Ashiatsu form used by Susan Beula was developed by her instructor, Michelle Mace- Lambert in her “ Ahh…..Shiatsu Bar Therapy”. It combines barefoot compression with Swedish Sports and Myofascial massage techniques. This style of one footed strokes includes an anterior routine as well as a posterior one. | |