Life can feel pretty heavy, and while supporting the weight of the world our muscles, joints and nervous system absorb the pressure. Believe it or not, a great way to release the tension is to let someone ‘walk all over you’… literally.
Sounds contradictory, right?
But Ashiatsu Massage – which translates to “foot pressure” in Japanese – is a safe, painless and deeply relaxing treatment. Performed by registered massage therapists (RMTs), this barefoot method involves the use of overhead bars to assist in balance and gravitational force, while massaging in flowing, comprehensive and consistent strokes.
And like most practices, Ashiatsu massage can be applied through a variety of techniques depending on the client’s needs.
Here’s why you might want to get on board with an Ashiatsu Massage:
1. IT CORRECTS POSTURE & RELIEVES MUSCLE PAIN
Ideal for the daily desk dwellers – Ashiatsu massage consists of movements along the para-spinals and lumbar region that elongate the spine and surrounding muscles. When applied appropriately, the massage therapist’s feet create a “push-pull-pumping” effect which promotes compression of the soft tissue surrounding the joints. Afterward, you’ll feel refreshed and ready to face your 9 to 5.
2. IT’S PAINLESS…WE PROMISE
We get it – you may have some trepidation around the idea of bearing the weight of an adult on your back. But much like a Swedish massage, Ashiatsu massage involves pressured flowing strokes without sharp discomfort. You’ll experience bruise-free compression on the deeper layers of your muscles, tendons, and ligaments without the threat of a bony elbow.
3. IT’S KRYPTONITE FOR SCAR TISSUE
Unfortunately, the body doesn’t have a natural mechanism to reduce scar tissue. Just like magic, Ashiatsu massage deeply massages fascia, gently removing festering scar tissue. Years of suffering are put to rest so your body can finally self-correct.
4. IT COVERS MORE TERRITORY
In most cases, just twenty minutes of Ashiatsu massage will achieve what takes an hour of Swedish Massage. A larger area is triggered, contributing to increased blood flow and toxin release at a very high rate.
5. IT INCREASES FLEXIBILITY & RANGE OF MOTION
Whether you’re a marathon runner or a supermom – we all need a good stretch. Ashiatsu massage applies the right amount of pressure to your tendons and ligaments, diving into a deeper stretch that you’d achieve on your own. So basically, you’ll get the results of downward dog, without doing the work.
At Knead to Balance, all massage therapists are registered and licensed with the government of Ontario.
To learn more about the massage therapy treatments available at Knead to Balance click here and email us at shawna@kneadtobalance.com to book your appointment.