What is Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy®?

The original western barefoot bar massage technique using deep tissue/compression effleurage strokes that glide over the body. Movements are combined with centrifugal and centripetal directions. Specific strokes create a structural change in chronic soft tissue damage and provide deep relaxation.  Bars are used above the head for support and balance. Lubricant is applied to the body. Developed by massage therapist, Ruthie Piper Hardee in 1995 as a result of her own scoliosis and disk pain associated with bending over the table to deliver deep tissue massage.

I have read about Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® in many massage magazine articles, why do consumers  love this work so much?

The continuous deep tissue pressure you are able to deliver with your feet covers much larger areas at once than your hands. The foot is broad and makes the compression smooth and sumptuous not bony or prodding like using an elbow, thumb or massage tool. The consistent pressure is easily maintained hour after hour.  Consumers feel like they got a 2 hour deep tissue massage in about 40 minutes. They get relieve from chronic inflammation faster than that of a normal massage.  Imagine being able to work client after client and never having to bend at the waist ever again to give deep compression. Your hands and wrists can take a break too. Clients feel like they got more “bang for their buck” and the stress and strain on your body was effortless. The results of those suffering from chronic back, neck and shoulder pain have amazing testimonials. Our clients show dramatic results with better posture and over all well being.

How is this method different from other popular barefoot techniques?

Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® is distinctly separate and unique in comparison to Barefoot Shiatsu, Fiji , or Thai work. One main factor is that we use bars in the ceiling. A second factor is our focus on the atlas and myofascial plains. Research supports our findings to have the atlas and cervical dish area straight when working along the spine. We are famous for our posterior work along the muscles surrounding the spine and we don’t just “press” down, our compression is multi directional.  Oil and cream are applied for smooth gliding strokes with skin to skin contact. The technique is best applied a minimum height of 2 feet from the floor to the table for the best in client safety and comfort.  Performing this form of barefoot work on the floor without bars or the space between client and floor is a cheap substitute for the real deal.  When it comes to western barefoot effleurage using bars, we wrote the book!

Can anyone receive this work?

Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy® is ideal for large clients who prefer a deeper massage but we developed different protocols for different body types. The main thing to recognize is that there are many contraindications for deep compression and no two body types are alike. Detailed notes, lecture and safe application is the main focus of our curriculum. You will have in-depth knowledge of barefoot compression work before you leave our classroom.

Do I have to be a small/petite person to take this course?

Not at all. There are no height or weight requirements for Barefoot Basics. Some of our graduates are 150 to 190 pounds and they are as smooth and gentle as can be. It’s really more about the fluidity and flow of your body expression. We developed this work along time ago to accommodate all therapists by creating different program levels. The skills taught in Barefoot Basics and the anterior workshops can be done by anyone. You only have one foot on the body when your standing so you are in complete control of your pressure at all times. We do recommend a certain level of coordination so your delivery will be “sensational” and not received as “mediocre”.

I received solicitation in the mail that looks just like your program under a similar name, I’m confused?  

We are flattered at the imitators.  Because we have spent years perfecting this modality and making it popular, there are those who have taken liberties to not only teach our technique without permission but repackage our trade name as well. This marketing angle has caused wide spread confusion within the massage community. The name “Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy®” is registered with the United States Trademark office. The methods and arrangements by which we teach this specific form are actually protected under Federal copyright law. Our organization has never trained any person to teach outside our umbrella of excellence. People continually report to us their confusion over barefoot techniques with similar derivatives.  Only “Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy” is the original and any similarly-sounding names are not affiliated with us!

Can you actually feel things with your feet?

Yes. It takes time – just like it did when you learned to massage with your hands. With practice and patience your feet can learn to palpate just like your hands. We call it “sole sensitivity”.

I am expected to go back and show others at my spa how to do this technique after my training.

Can men be trained in this technique?

Absolutely. This modality is great for any therapist that wants to decrease stress and strain to their body. We have a few chiropractors who have taken our course and they are really big guys.    

Do I have to be a massage therapist to take this course?

The NCBTMB approves many bodyworkers for this course. Physical therapist, Occupational therapist, or anyone else who does bodywork including personal trainers and yoga instructors can participate in this course. Our main focus is on a quality workshop experience for all involved, so we require that you have a higher than average understanding of anatomy and physiology if you are not a massage practitioner. My company has set high standards to the quality of our offerings and it would not be fair to hold up class for others.

How can I be sure I’m taking the class with the authentic source?  

Make sure your registration information comes from a current instructor who is listed on the corporate website at www.deepfeet.com. Then you know you are going directly to the true source of Ashiatsu Oriental Bar Therapy®, not an “adapted” version of what someone has made up. We are constantly developing new concepts through research and want you to be up to date.

Are the bars hard to install? 

During your workshop we devote a large section of time to go over how to install bars. We cover everything from commercial drop-in ceilings to an easy residential ceiling. We also cover unique situations such as vaulted ceilings or low ceilings and have comprehensive notes on materials. We also include in depth photo samples in your student manual with schematics and specific designs for “hard-to” situations.

How much does it cost to install the bars?  

If you have a standard 8 to 9 foot ceiling with wood studs it can be as low as $80 and a very easy set up. From our years of experience, we have created custom hardware that works perfect for your needs. You can take it with you immediately following your class so you can get your bars up fast. To install bars into a commercial drop/false ceiling, it is more expensive and the cost varies depending on what kind of an installation you decide to go with. A rough estimate would be $250 to $400. This is considered a small investment compared to the return you will get in high income from offering a one of a kind, specialized treatment in your area.

What if I am renting space?  

The holes created from a residential installation can be patched, and ceiling tiles can easily be replaced. It is not difficult to leave a space when renting, while leaving no trace that bars were ever there.

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