Traditional Floor Shiatsu and Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage

What is Shiatsu Massage?

Shiatsu Photo Courtesy of MassageNerd.com

Shiatsu is the Japanese word meaning "finger pressure." Traditionally, this massage is performed on a soft mat or futon on the floor and allows for your massage therapist to use their entire body weight to perform the techniques. It often incorporates full body stretches, and compression with the practitioner's fingers, thumbs, hands, knees, and feet. 

Shiatsu is based on Traditional Chinese Medicine and works along with the meridian channels of the body to create balance and harmony within the energetic system. Shiatsu can also be explained within the paradigm of Western Medicine as affecting the nervous system through the application of therapeutic pressure thus reducing pain. 

Shiatsu benefits both the massage client and the massage therapist because it allows for endless applications of technique that aren't limited to being performed on top of a table. 

What is Traditional Floor Ashiatsu Massage?

Ashiatsu is the Japanese word that means "foot pressure." Ashiatsu is the incorporation of the use of the massage therapist's feet to perform the massage techniques. American massage therapists have their own interpretation of this style of massage that uses oil/ cream and the use of overhead bars that are mounted on the ceiling. Traditional Japanese Ashiatsu is usually performed on the floor with no lubrication. This allows for a deep and focused application of pressure along the body's meridian points. We are trained in both Japanese and Western Ashiatsu (Sometimes called Deep Feet Bar Therapy, Ashiatsu Bar Therapy, or AOBT).

What do I wear during a Traditional Floor Shiatsu Massage?

Your clothes should cover your entire body and allow for freedom of movement and stretching. We suggest all cotton clothing that covers your arms and legs and has a loose neckline. Yoga or exercise clothing is usually suitable as well. Your massage will be performed fully clothed.