Ashiatsu in Malaga: the massage given with the feet
In Ashiatsu the therapist does not use their hands: they massage with their own feet, holding overhead bars to control how much weight goes in. Deep, broad pressure unlike anything you have tried.
Not available yet · We are getting it ready
What barefoot massage is
Ashiatsu comes from the Japanese ashi (foot) and atsu (pressure). The therapist holds bars fixed to the ceiling and massages with the soles of the feet, controlling exactly how much weight is applied.
It is the best known member of a family of techniques found across half the world: Chavutti Thirumal from Kerala, performed with a rope; Thai Yam Khan; Chinese Cai Bei, with parallel bars; and Japanese Barefoot Shiatsu. The Western form taught today as Ashiatsu was systematised by Ruthie Hardee in 1995, combining several of them.
Why with the feet
- The sole covers far more surface than a hand
- Pressure goes deeper without feeling sharp
- Allows long, continuous strokes down the whole back
- The therapist meters weight through the bars rather than pushing
- Works well on fascia and denser areas
Who it is for
For anyone who always asks for "harder" and still wants more. For dense, loaded backs that never quite let go with a conventional massage. And for anyone who wants to try something genuinely different.
If what you want is your feet massaged rather than a massage given with feet, you want the foot massage, which is available right now.
When it is not advisable
- Pregnancy
- Recent surgery or healing fractures
- Fever or active infection
- Heart conditions or uncontrolled high blood pressure
- Advanced osteoporosis
- If in any doubt, check with your doctor
Join the waiting list
We will let you know as soon as we open the diary, no commitment. We are a small team and the first sessions will be limited.
Frequently asked questions
When will it be available?
We are finishing the training and installing the bars. Join the list and we will tell you as soon as we open the diary.
Does it hurt?
It should not. The pressure is deep but broad and progressive, and the therapist regulates weight through the bars throughout. It is adjusted during the session.
Is this the same as a foot massage?
No. In Ashiatsu the therapist massages using their feet. In the foot massage we massage your feet.
Is it hygienic?
Yes. The therapist washes and disinfects their feet before every session, and works over clean linen, as in any other massage.
How does it differ from Chavutti Thirumal or Kalari?
They are close cousins. Kalari comes from Kerala and the therapist holds a rope; Ashiatsu is the form most widespread in the West and uses ceiling bars.