Why I Use My Feet (Yes, Really)
And Why It Might Be Exactly What Your Body’s Been Asking For
If you’ve never had Ashiatsu before, I get it…it might sound a little… out there.
“Wait… you’re saying you stand on me?”
“Isn’t that dangerous?”
“Why feet though?”
Yup. All valid questions.
So let’s talk about it.
Because once you feel what barefoot massage can do? Most of my clients never go back.
What Is Ashiatsu, Anyway?
Ashiatsu is a deep tissue style of massage that uses the therapist’s feet instead of hands. I stand on the massage table and use overhead support bars to control my weight and pressure, applying long, gliding strokes and deep compression that melts into the muscles without feeling “pokey” or painful.
It’s kind of like being steamrolled… in the best possible way.
We’re talking deep bodywork that actually feels good in the moment, not something you’re recovering from three days later.
Why Feet Instead of Hands?
Short answer: leverage and results.
Your body has large muscle groups: your glutes, hamstrings, back, shoulders often need more than knuckles and elbows to make a lasting difference. Using my feet (with gravity on my side) allows me to:
Cover more surface area in one stroke
Apply deep, even pressure without digging or bruising
Stretch and decompress tight tissues instead of just smashing them
Save my hands and wrists so I can continue giving the best to my clients long-term
Plus, feet create a broad, soothing pressure that your body can actually relax into—> no more clenching through an elbow-to-the-shoulder moment.
Who Is It For?
Ashiatsu is ideal for clients who:
Love deep tissue work
Have chronic pain, tightness, or muscle knots that just don’t quit
Are used to massage and want something that truly makes a difference
Want pain relief and relaxation in the same session
If you’ve ever said, “I love deep pressure, but I don’t want to leave sore,” this is probably for you.
What If I’m Nervous to Try It?
Totally normal. But here’s what I’ll promise:
You’re in control. I check in frequently during sessions.
I adjust the pressure to your comfort level using the overhead bars.
Your safety, comfort, and goals come first—always.
And honestly? Most people say, “Ohhhhhh, now I get it,” within the first ten minutes.
Let’s Redefine Deep Tissue
Massage doesn’t have to hurt to work.
Ashiatsu is the reason I can help busy people feel better in less time, with less soreness, and with longer-lasting results.
So if you’re tired of the “deep tissue bruises” and ready to experience massage that actually works with your body—not against it—let’s get your session booked: https://www.deepreliefmassage.com/schedule-now
Your back will thank you.
So will your calendar.
Supporting you,
Katy Davis
Licensed Massage Therapist
Deep Relief Massage Therapy | Longview, TX