Ashiatsu massage.
Your therapist works with their feet, holding overhead bars for balance. Long, broad strokes, and a depth hands can’t match.
- Lengths
- 30 · 60 · 90 min
- Price
- From $65
- Pressure
- Deep, broad
- What to wear
- Draped, underwear optional
- Best for
- Deep pressure lovers
What it is
Ashiatsu is barefoot massage. Its name is Japanese for “foot pressure.” You lie on a table, and your therapist uses oil or lotion and their feet to deliver long gliding strokes on your bare skin.
Bars are mounted on the ceiling above the table. Your therapist holds them to keep their balance and control how much pressure they use. Their body weight and gravity do the work, and the broad surface of the foot lets deep and surface muscles let go.
Why people book it
- Depth that’s hard to get from hands alone
- Can help with lower back pain from posture or muscle strain
- Can help athletes keep or regain flexibility
- Deeply relaxing, even with firm pressure
What a session looks like
A session is usually 60 to 90 minutes, on a table, with oil or lotion. Your therapist cleans and warms their feet before they start. They may add stretching, range-of-motion work, or hands-on deep tissue.
You’re draped the whole time. Underwear is optional, though not recommended, and the draping is a bit more liberal than in Swedish or deep tissue. Tell your therapist about any discomfort as it happens.
The studio describes Ashiatsu as deeper than deep tissue, and broader, since it uses the whole foot. Want focused, slow work on a specific spot with hands, elbows or forearms? Deep Tissue is the better fit. Want deep pressure across your whole back and legs? Book Ashiatsu.
Therapists who offer Ashiatsu
From Mindbody: bookable now or booked recently
Pricing
- 30 minutes$65
- 60 minutes$120
- 90 minutes$170
Same price for every style. Most Ashiatsu sessions are 60 or 90 minutes.
Questions
Does it hurt?
It can be intense, especially around the glutes, but it should never be painful. Tell your therapist what you feel and they’ll adjust.
Is it sanitary? What about the feet?
Your therapist cleans and warms their feet before your session starts.
How much do I undress?
Underwear is optional, though not recommended. You’re draped the whole session, but the draping is a bit more liberal than in Swedish or deep tissue.
Is it safe for me?
The studio lists conditions where Ashiatsu may not be appropriate, including pregnancy or nursing, uncontrolled high blood pressure, blood thinners, osteoporosis or fractures, a herniated disc, and injury or surgery in the last 12 months. If you’re unsure, ask your doctor before booking.
