Ashiatsu Massage in Apex, NC
Deep, flowing barefoot massage designed to relieve tension, support mobility, and help your body feel more open, grounded, and restored.

Rooted in Whole-Body Wellness
Blending therapeutic bodywork, restorative care, and mindful movement to support natural healing and lasting balance
Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage
Deep Therapeutic Pressure for Tension Relief and Whole-Body Restoration
Ashiatsu is a therapeutic barefoot massage technique where the therapist uses their feet to deliver broad, consistent pressure across the body. This allows for deep work that can feel smooth, grounding, and supportive without the sharpness that can sometimes come from smaller points of pressure.
At Apex Retreat, Ashiatsu is used as part of a personalized bodywork approach to help release tension, support mobility, and encourage a deeper sense of relaxation. Your session is adjusted to your body, comfort level, and wellness goals.
This May Be Helpful For:
Deep muscle tension
Back, hip, shoulder, or leg tightness
Clients who prefer firm pressure
Limited mobility or stiffness
Stress held in the body
Active lifestyles or physical overuse
Ongoing pain management support
Whole-body relaxation and restoration
1000+
Wellness Clients
11+
Therapeutic & Holistic Specialties
4.9
Average Rating
Benefits of Ashiatsu Massage
How Ashiatsu Supports Your Wellness
Ashiatsu supports the body through slow, broad, and steady pressure that can help ease tight muscles, reduce tension, and encourage the body to relax more fully. Because the pressure is delivered with the therapist’s feet, this technique can provide deep therapeutic work while still feeling fluid and balanced.
Potential benefits may include:
Relief from deep muscle tension
Support for back, hip, shoulder, and leg discomfort
Improved mobility and flexibility
Reduced stiffness from overuse or repetitive strain

A deeper sense of relaxation
Support for circulation and body awareness
Less concentrated pressure than some deep tissue techniques
Ongoing support for pain management and wellness care
What to Expect After Your Session
After an Ashiatsu massage, you may feel deeply relaxed, less tense, and more grounded in your body. Some clients notice improved movement, reduced tightness, or a lighter feeling through the back, hips, legs, and shoulders.
Because Ashiatsu can include deeper therapeutic pressure, your body may feel like it has been worked in a productive way. Drinking water, resting as needed, and giving your body time to respond can help support the benefits of your session.
Testimonials
Hear from Our Happy Clients
See how clients describe their experience with our natural wellness care, calming therapies, and supportive guidance.
MJF
Dean gives the best massages!! I used to regularly see him at a fancy spa and had a falling out with the spa. I wasted almost 2 years getting mediocre massages at other places and finally went to see him at his business in Apex. Wow! I am so relieved to have found him again. His pressure is fantastic and he does a great job of focusing on my problem areas while still doing a thorough full body massage. Don't hesitate to give him a try -- you won't be disappointed!
Michelle D.
I’ve been going to Fernanda at Apex Retreat for 15 years and she never disappoints me. I love that she Taylor’s my appointments to my needs. She truly cares about me as an individual and it’s obvious she has a passion for her work. I also love that she gives me “homework” AKA Stretches between visits so that I can feel my best. Her professionalism, passion for her work, reliability and ambience, are all five stars. I highly recommend All of the therapists at Apex Retreat.
Maria R.
My massage therapist, Gail, was phenomenal. She used different methods to easy muscle tension and joint pain and the result was amazing, I feel renewed. Perfect pressure, loved the eucalyptus smell during the massage and the scrub she used on my back and feet after my massage; best 90 mins massage of my life. Highly recommend her.
Book Your Session
Choose Your Therapist
Each therapist brings a different background, specialty focus, and approach to care. Choose the provider whose experience best fits your needs, then use their booking link or contact information to schedule directly.

Fernanda Santiago
CO-FOUNDER, CERTIFIED AROMATHERAPIST - Aromatic Medicine, LMBT
NCLic # 09509
Best for clients seeking:
Aromatherapy, reflexology, Thai bodywork, herbal wellness, and holistic care.
**Fernanda is not currently accepting new appointments.

Rapeewan Kannawat (Gail)
LMBT
Best for clients seeking:
Thai massage, deep therapeutic work, and whole-body relaxation.

Lijing Liu
LMBT
NCLic # 19742
Best for clients seeking:
Pain relief, relaxation, clinical-style bodywork, sports recovery, and a blend of Eastern and Western massage techniques.

Dean Hebert
LMBT, Advanced Thai Massage Practitioner, Educator
NCLic # 10820
Best for clients seeking:
Mobility support, Thai massage, deep tissue work, and bodywork focused on helping the body move and function better.
FAQs
Common Questions About Ashiatsu Massage
What is Ashiatsu massage?
Ashiatsu is a barefoot massage technique where the therapist uses their feet to apply broad, steady pressure to help release muscle tension and support relaxation.
Is Ashiatsu the same as deep tissue massage?
Ashiatsu can provide deep therapeutic pressure, but it often feels broader and more flowing than traditional deep tissue massage because the pressure is applied with the therapist’s feet.
Is Ashiatsu painful?
Ashiatsu should not feel overwhelming or painful. Your therapist can adjust the pressure throughout the session based on your comfort level.
Who is Ashiatsu best for?
Ashiatsu may be a good fit for clients who enjoy firm pressure, deep bodywork, and support for tension in the back, hips, shoulders, or legs.
Do I need to do anything special before my appointment?
No special preparation is needed. It can be helpful to arrive hydrated and communicate any areas of discomfort, injuries, or pressure preferences before the session begins.
Who should I book with for Ashiatsu?
Choose a therapist who lists Ashiatsu or barefoot massage as one of their specialties. Gail offers Ashiatsu at Apex Retreat.
