Walking on back massage, also called ashiatsu massage, is an old massage technique originally performed by monks; today, this technique is becoming increasingly popular in America.
This controlled deep tissue massage has many benefits. Many different styles of barefoot massage have originated from India, Japan, Thailand, China, and the Philippines; some are practiced on a floor mat, others require balancing props, such as ceiling bars, chairs, bamboo rods, poles, and even ropes and chains. And because of that, a huge amount of our education is in those theories β like yin and yang.
Because the body work done can be performed at a much deeper level than through traditional hand massage, clients can see benefits much more quickly than they otherwise might. Gentle and deeply penetrating, the therapist controls the massage by carefully applying pressure with her feet and using controlled centripetal push and centrifugal flow movements, in addition to pumping movements that loosen tight muscles and eventually actually change structures, gradually and beneficially.
Walking on back massage is painless, effective, and very safe as long as the therapist is certified tin ashiatsu techniques. Care is taken at all times to control pressure, adjusting as the client requires it. Instead, pressure is rigorously controlled so that only the amount of pressure needed is applied, and never directly on the spine or joints. During the session, the therapist will use his or her feet to walk gently and slowly up and down the back, with feet placed carefully on either side of the spine.
As he or she does so, the feet are used to stroke, push and pull muscles to release tension. During the session, the therapist will be holding onto a bar positioned above his or her head to remain steady and to support any extra body weight not required for the compression and massage. In addition, the therapist takes special care to protect the joints and spine so that pain and injury do not result.
