Frequently Asked Questions

Ashiatsu is barefoot massage. The word comes from two Japanese words — "Ashi" meaning foot and "Atsu" meaning pressure. The therapist holds custom overhead bars to balance while using their feet to massage.

People who gravitate toward Ashiatsu tend to prefer very deep tissue work, but it doesn't have to be intense. The feedback heard over and over is that even when it's deep, the broad surface of the foot makes it far more comfortable than elbows, thumbs, or knuckles.

Yes, Ashiatsu is generally safe when performed by a trained and licensed therapist. That said, it may not be suitable for everyone. This is exactly why a Client Intake Form is required before every appointment — so any contraindications can be identified in advance. You will be directed to the form as soon as you book. If you don't receive it, text us at 512-761-0004 and we will send it manually.

It's more of a glide than a walk. A lot of people cannot even tell feet are being used — 15 minutes into a session they will ask when the feet part starts, and the feet have been used the whole time.

Absolutely. The deep broad pressure has an effect similar to a heavy weighted blanket and many clients drift off to sleep mid-session. There have been many a snore during a massage — no judgment. It means you feel safe, comfortable, and relaxed. Or maybe you just really needed the nap. Either way, that's what this space is for.

Yes. Feet are washed and sanitized before every client. Two pairs of sandals are kept in the treatment room so there is always a clean pair to switch into right after washing. And honestly — feet can be cleaner than hands. Hands touch everything.

Ashiatsu is a more comfortable way to receive deep pressure. Because it relies on gravity and the therapist's body weight rather than hands, it is easier to apply consistent, sustained pressure — which is especially important for trigger point release. It can also be as detailed as hand work when needed, using the toes, ball of foot, or heel for more targeted spots.

There is also a practical reason: most massage therapists only practice for 7-8 years before chronic hand, wrist, shoulder, and back injuries end their careers. Ashiatsu is how this practice has stayed going past the point where most therapists have to stop.

Applied Neurology is a brain-based approach to pain relief. Instead of treating only the tissue that hurts, it works with your nervous system directly. Simple targeted exercises involving your eyes, balance, and movement send clearer signals to your brain. When the brain gets better information, it reduces the protective responses that show up as pain, tension, and limited movement.

It can be done as a standalone session, in person or virtually, or combined with massage for faster and longer-lasting results. Learn more about Applied Neurology →

Clients disrobe and are draped under a cotton flannel sheet throughout the session. Most feel comfortable disrobing completely, while others keep their underwear on. Both are fine.

If you are coming in for a low back or hip pain session, disrobing completely allows better access to the glutes, which are often involved in both conditions. If you prefer to stay partially covered, compressions over the area are still possible — just understand the work will be more limited.

90 minutes works well for one to two focus areas, or a general full body massage with extra attention to a specific area like the shoulders, neck, glutes, or low back.

120 minutes is the right choice if you want to address two to three areas, or want a full body massage that includes all the details — feet, hands, neck, scalp. About 40% of clients book the 2-hour session.

No. Ashiatsu is a deep massage style that requires time to properly warm up the tissues before going deep. Going too deep too fast causes muscles to tense up, making the session counterproductive. The goal is muscle relaxation and pain relief, not discomfort for its own sake — and that takes time. The shortest session offered is 90 minutes.

For pain relief: weekly for 3-4 weeks, then every 2 weeks for 2 months, then monthly or every 6 weeks for maintenance. Clients who do their homework between sessions — stretching, foam rolling, the Applied Neuro drills — tend to see significant relief within this timeframe.

For active recovery: every 3 weeks works well for athletes looking to support recovery, reduce soreness, and maintain mobility.

For general maintenance: once every 3-6 weeks is plenty if you have no specific pain issue.

Keep in mind that a knot you have had for 10 years is unlikely to resolve in one session. If you already know you need multiple sessions, ask about package pricing to get a discount.