"Fasci-Ashi"... as in Fascia+Ashiatsu=Fasci-Ashi.
(And you thought you finally figured out how to pronounce "Ashiatsu", now I throw a curve ball at you!) I'd like to talk about what ~I see~ is happening during the strokes that we teach in our Barefoot Basics class. In my head, I call this work "Fasci-Ashi"... as in Fascia+Ashiatsu=Fasci-Ashi. (A true "Jeni-ism" term that I'm pretty proud of, no matter how cheesy it sounds!)
An amazing thing about Ashiatsu is that although it’s billed as a westernized luxurious adaptation of eastern styles of barefoot massage, the therapeutic benefits of its modern and ancient roots are working synergistically – you just need to know what to look for within the strokes to understand how to use it strategically in more clinical applications.
So to stir things up, periodically I'll post this series of Fasci-Ashi's, each one on a different aspect of our modality.
The "Hip Sweep/Swoop/Swirl" series of strokes from our beginner class:
Focusing on the strokes from our introductory level class that deal directly with the spine, I’ll start with what I see is happening during the Hip Sweep/Swoop/Swirl series, which addresses thick connective tissues of the Lumbodorsal Fascia.
Working this area of the low back and hips starts a chain reaction of relaxation throughout the entire body. Gliding effleurage barefoot compressions and multidirectional frictions to the sacrum and surrounding areas will gently mobilize the web of deep and superficial membranes – increasing range of motion and tissue rejuvenation, naturally assisting a passive realignment of the Sacro-Iliac joints and pubic symphasis. Prolonged compressions will heat, stretch and energize connective tissues while also activating the parasympathetic nervous system as the body gently attunes itself. Passive jostling as we exit the stroke helps the client feel an effortless freedom of movement, encouraging a release of deep physical holding patterns.
Gliding effleurage, multidirectional friction, compression, and jostling. All in Ashiatsu? Yep.
Sound Scrumtrulescent?!!? This is only 1 stroke of the many we have to offer! This will feel amazing to your client and is very gentle on your own body. If you haven't felt an Ashiatsu session from one of our Certified Alumni, maybe it's time you do!You can learn how to do these strokes in any Fundamentals class taught by our authorized instructors on the FasciAshi Instructor team, listed here
Stay tuned and I'll periodically tell you more of what I see is structurally happening in each Ashi stroke we do.
Jeni Spring has been an instructor of Ashiatsu since 2008, and is the owner of Heeling Sole Barefoot Massage in San Antonio, Texas. She rides scooters and watches Roller Derby.
Jeni Spring, LMT, MTI
