Massage specialties
Each massage will be customized to meet your specific needs and preferences. During your first consultation, your massage therapist will help you determine which modalities are right for you. Multiple massages techniques may be utilized in one session. Below is a short description of the massage services offered at Ashiatsu Columbia, LLC.
Ashiatsu
Ashiatsu is a massage specialty in which the therapist uses her feet instead of her hands and can be tailored to anyone able to lay face down and receive a regular massage, especially ideal for those seeking deeper muscle tissue work.
Myofascial Release
Myofascial Release utilizes a set of gentle yet effective techniques, such as mild compressions and stretching, that targets the fascia (connective tissue surrounding bones, muscles and organs and keep them "glued" together). Restrictions in the fascial system prevents adequate circulation and can lead to muscle tension, pain, and malfunctioning of the body's organs. When the fascia becomes entangled and hardens, toxins get trapped, creating a series of symptoms that negatively affect your health. Restoring the flow and the flexibility in the fascial system allows the body to heal itself naturally to homeostasis (healthy balance).
INTRODUCING ASHI-THAI
What is Ashi-Thai?
Ashi-Thai is a blend between Thai massage and Ashiatsu. Thai massage traditionally consists of compression techniques and stretching techniques. Ashi-Thai incorporates the same elements of Thai massage while using barefoot/Ashiatsu approach.
Why Ashi-Thai?
Ashi-Thai helps to reduce muscle tension using compression work for the entire body. It is a good way (that feels wonderful too!) to prep the body for stretching. Your therapist will utilize her feet and/or hands for the stretches. Stretches include hamstrings, calves, hips/glutes, back, pecs and neck. Anyone who feels stiff, lives a sedentary lifestyle, or who simply doesn't stretch enough could benefit from Ashi-Thai.
What to expect?
For an Ashi-Thai session, you need to wear something comfortable (gym wear for example), no need to get undressed and oiled-up! Ashi-Thai is relaxing with compressions for tissue warm-up and is an excellent way to get passive stretches. Your therapist will work with your comfort level to ensure you get a good stretch. And who doesn't need to stretch?
other massage services
Signature Swedish
Immerse yourself in divine relaxation thanks to our gentle, slow-paced and fluid touch. The flowing style of our Signature Swedish massage sedates the nervous system to promote healthy physiological responses within and allows your mind to embrace peace and freedom in the present moment. This massage is performed with your therapist's hands and is recommended for individuals who prefer a lighter touch than that provided from Ashiatsu techniques.
Deep tissue
Deep Tissue Massage reaches deeper layers of muscles. It is used to break down knots and relieve pressure points throughout the body. This massage is beneficial for athletes and those who sit for long periods of time and who like deeper pressure work. This type of massage is only recommended for those uncomfortable with Ashiatsu techniques and prefer receiving massages with their therapist's hands or tools.
Hot Stones
Hot Stone Massage is often paired with Swedish or Deep tissue massage. Stones are heated and used with oils to sooth, warm, and massage your muscles. This allows your body to relax and release tension and stress. It is highly recommended for individuals who would like a deeper relaxation through warmth, or to warm up upper layers of tissue prior to working out stubborn muscle knots.