Things to Know Before Getting an Ashiatsu Massage

✤ A 60-minute massage will relax you just as much as an 8-hour sleep.
✤ There are up to 75 types of massages used today.
✤ Massage stimulates the release of endorphins, our body's natural painkillers.

Ashiatsu or Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy (AOBT) originated from the Buddhist monks, first from China, and later from Japan and Thailand. Ashiatsu is a kind of massage therapy which involves the therapist walking on the client's body and using his feet to heal him from a variety of pains.

The name "Ashiatsu" comes from the Japanese ashi for foot and atsu for pressure. Usually, the heel, arch, sesamoid, or the complete surface of the foot is used to vary the weight and pressure.

The therapist does this with the help of various props to support himself. Commonly, bars are used for this purpose.

During a traditional Ashiatsu massage, the client lies on the floor in loose clothing, and the practitioner walks on his body to target specific pressure points. This is done by the practitioner barefoot, the reason why it is sometimes referred to as barefoot Shiatsu.

Although the therapy has its roots in Asia, it is now practiced all over the world. The practitioners are very well trained to take a whole body approach towards wellness, and may also prescribe herbs and other treatment options to the clients.

The therapy provides a plethora of benefits. However, there are a few things you should know before getting an Ashiatsu massage. Let us see the benefits before we move on to the contradictions and aftercare.

✤ The AOBT movements help to stretch the muscles, relieving all kinds of muscular discomfort in the body.
✤ The massage also helps the lymphatic system of the body to release toxins at a high rate.

✤ The use of feet helps in relaxing the muscles of the body, and moving the internal energy, Qi.

✤ Unlike other massage techniques, the strokes in an Ashiatsu massage distribute the pressure evenly over a large part of the body. Therefore, the pain generally accompanied by a deep tissue massage is avoided.

Given here is a list of general and localized Ashiatsu massage contraindications. These include, but are not limited to:

✤ Osteoporosis
✤ Kidney disorders
✤ Any kind of swelling or inflammation on the body
✤ Any kind of skin infections or ulcers

✤ Any recent surgery
✤ Broken bones or fractures
✤ Hemophilia or other blood/clotting disorders
✤ Current use of blood thinners
✤ Phlebitis, thrombosis, DVT, active blood clot

✤ Contagious conditions or infections (Colds, flu, or contagious skin conditions)
✤ Acute injuries (bruises/hematomas)
✤ Implants (pace makers or breast implants)
✤ Frail individuals

✤ Varicose veins
✤ Protruding or ruptured discs
✤ Undiagnosed pain or illness

If you are unsure of whether or not you have a condition which might affect your ability to get a massage, you can always discuss your concerns with the therapist beforehand. He will tell you if the massage is not suitable for you, or whether you just need a different technique.

If you have a localized injury, your therapist may simply avoid massaging that area. In case the therapist is in doubt, it is wise to obtain permission from your doctor.

Following are the precautions that need to be taken for the first 48 hours of receiving the massage.

✖ Sit in a chair for a prolonged period.

✖ Play a heavy sport or work out in the gym.

✔ Stretching.

✔ Apply cold cream on the lower lumbar area.

✔ Lie on the floor with legs up on a sofa or chair.

✔ Take a hot sauna or steam.

After a few sessions of Ashiatsu massage, one's bodily functions improve, and create an overall sense of well-being. If you are looking for a way to unwind all your stress and relieve any kind of pain in the body, this massage is just the right thing for you. So, go ahead and book an appointment to relax like never before.