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Honolulu Massage Therapy
Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy
An
adaptation of an ancient form of Keralite barefoot massage,
Ashiatsu uses deep compression effleurage strokes that
glide over the body. The therapist's body weight is used to
apply
pressure with their feet, sweeping and soothing the muscles to bring
about structural changes in chronic soft tissue damage.
Correct application will provide deep relaxation and
stimulate
the lymphatic system of the body. Bars are used overhead
for balance and support.
Origin
The word Ashiatsu comes from "ashi", meaning foot, and "atsu",
meaning pressure. It is an ancient form of bodywork brought to the
world by Buddhist monks and is associated with traditional
Eastern modalities, such as Shiatsu. The traditional Ashiatsu
treatment took into consideration breathing patterns, emotional
states, and focused heavily on diet. The work was done with the
recipient clothed on the floor while the practitioner would use hand
and foot pressure to balance the basic principals of change.
This form of bodywork is a small part of a very complex system
of traditional Chinese medicine that requires years of study for
true understanding. Some refer to Ashiatsu as barefoot Shiatsu
massage, but the technique has been adapted for Western
Civilization, making the two modalities quite different.
Although the roots of Ashiatsu are definitely Asian, the
technique and application is truly Western. The Ashiatsu
technique described here is NOT performed on a mat or floor,
or through clothing. The focus here is on Western application
and sciences using foot compression to deliver Swedish massage
as founded by Ruth Hardee.
What you can expect from your
first treatment
Your Ashiatsu treatment will start like a standard Swedish
massage. You will undress and get on the table in the prone
position. The therapist will begin the session with her hands
to apply the oil and then begin the routine standing on the
table, using the overhead bars mounted overhead for balance.
The massage will address both the back and front of the body,
finishing at the head.
Ashiatsu is Not for Everyone
You are Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
You've had breast implants within the last year
You've had skin lesions or varicose veins
You've recently had Lasik or eye surgery
You've had TB, thrombosis, aneurysm, or kidney disorders
You are on any blood thinning medications
You have uncontrolled high blood pressure
You've had a recent injury
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"When she was done I felt
extraordinarily
relaxed
&
we were even
standing
up straighter
than
usual....."
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