The Japanese word “ashiatsu,” which means “foot pressure,” refers to the westernization of techniques that came from several different places. This type of massage is now done on a standard massage table with bars on the ceiling that the therapist can hold onto for stability and control. Oil or lotion is used to boost the pleasure of the client.
The therapist will press the muscles with their feet, using gentle, deep compressions to break up any knots, gliding strokes to lengthen the muscles. When giving a massage, the therapist’s body weight gives each stroke more force than their hands. Even though most people know that massage is good for your health, Ashiatsu massage has a few advantages over other types.
It Helps With Long-Term Pain:
Ashiatsu massage is a deep-tissue massage that is very good at relieving pain. This type of massage works on the deeper layers of soft tissue by getting under the top layers of the skin.
Also, the pressure makes the blood flow faster, which reduces the type of inflammation that causes chronic pain. It also makes it possible to get rid of connective tissues, which cause much pain and discomfort. This style of massage is great for getting rid of chronic back pain caused by bad posture, tight muscles, or worn-out or bulging discs.
It Makes You More Flexible Overall:
When the therapist uses long, deep strokes, their body weight works with gravity to help stretch and lengthen the muscle fibers. Doing this in both directions, especially if you are an athlete, loosens up your muscles and brings your body back to its natural flexibility.
A thick band of tissue outside the leg called the iliotibial band that runs from the hip to the knee responds well to ashiatsu massage. This is important for running, and long-distance runners with problems here often have pain in this leg. Also, this kind of therapy works well for treating old injuries and the scar tissue and adhesions that come with them.
When Compared To Deep Tissue Massage, There Is Less Pain:
During a typical deep tissue massage, the muscles are pressed with the fingers, thumbs, and elbows. Because they are so small and sharp, they often hurt and even leave bruises.
Ashiatsu massage is different because it can use up to three times as much pressure without hurting. Ashiatsu is much softer than other types of massage, but it also goes much deeper. Because you won’t have to endure any additional discomfort before getting the relief you seek, the entire process will be less taxing and more enjoyable.
The Effects Stay Around Longer:
Ashiatsu is great for people who want a massage that relaxes them deeply, and because it is a complete form of care, its effects last much longer. Because of this, you might need to take some time to relax after this treatment.
One of the side effects of this therapy is that it speeds up blood flow and lymphatic nodes. This makes people feel better overall and is also good for their health.
Massage is a great way to ease aches and pains, boost your mood, give you more energy, and improve circulation. Moreover, a few factors differentiate Ashiatsu massage from other types.
What Does Ashiatsu Massage Feel Like?
Ashiatsu practitioners start by standing next to you and massaging you with one foot while putting pressure on you. Most of their weight isn’t put on right away. Instead, your muscles are gradually warmed up, which helps to ease any tension or nerves you might have before a new type of treatment.
During this phase, the therapist alternates between placing their weight on their heel and foot’s ball, similar to traditional hands-on massages. This rocking helps warm up, calm down, and release muscle tension.
After the client’s muscles have been warmed up, the therapist carefully climbs onto the back of the client. The bars above her support her and ensure that her weight is spread out evenly and that the force is added gradually as needed.
One of the most well-known Ashiatsu moves is made when the masseuse has both feet on the client’s back. The therapist stands shoulder-width apart and perpendicular to the spine at the center of the client’s torso. She raises herself slightly with the balancing bars. She then let us go a little so she could put more weight on the client, sliding her feet up and down along the edges of the spine.
Some of the best masseuses may even grab your torso and squeeze it. If you don’t like it when people touch you with their feet, the Ashiatsu massage might not be the best choice. Ashiatsu massages can focus on more than just the shoulders, back, and buttocks; they can also focus on the legs, arms, hands, and feet.
