Barefoot Bodyworks SLO
Ashiatsu Barefoot Massage Therapy in Downtown San Luis Obispo
Ultimate Pain Management and Relief for All Problem Areas.
Ease Tension and Maintain Mobility with Barefoot Massage.
Relieve Chronic Stress.
Restore Body and Mind.
Promote Relaxation and Regain Balance.
Delivered by our expert massage therapist with 24 + years of experience.
SLO Massage driven by intuition and skill to support total body and mind healing.
Specialties include:
~ Pain Management
~ Injury Prevention
~ Stress Relief
~ Myofascial Release
~ Full Body Massage
~ Deep Tissue Massage
Ranked in Tripadvisor’s Top 10 Best Spas & Wellness Centers
in San Luis Obispo for 2025
What Clients Are Saying
"Best Massage In San Luis Obispo"
Welcome to
BareFoot BodyWorks SLO
Your Sanctuary for Healing and Relaxation
Barefoot Bodyworks SLO provides a relaxing, tranquil, and calming environment for healing and massage treatment in the heart of San Luis Obispo.
With the highest standards of care, our expert massage therapists, and 12 years in business offering massage in SLO, our clients leave feeling deeply relaxed, restored, and renewed in both body and mind.
What Is Barefoot Massage?
Barefoot massage is an Ashiatsu technique using aspects of traditional Japanese Ashiatsu, in combination with Western modalities like deep tissue, Swedish, and myofascial massage styles.
Our deep tissue massage therapy using the massage therapists’ feet is an effective, multifaceted tool.
The deep strokes from the barefoot massage therapists’ feet, with gravity-assisted depth and compression, deliver a myofascial deep tissue massage for the best tension and stress relieving massage experience.
"I've had a massage regularly for over 20 years,
and this massage style is my favorite.
Missy is exceptional at what she does, and I promise, you will get results and feel amazing."
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Chris - 2019
Barefoot Massage is an Ashiatsu technique using deep strokes from the massage therapists’ feet, utilizing gravity-assisted depth and compression, to deliver a deep massage like no other.
The style is a combination of Western and Eastern forms of deep tissue technique and ancient forms of barefoot bodywork dating back thousands of years from cultures across several countries. Here at Barefoot Bodyworks SLO, we utilize an integration of modalities to deliver an effective barefoot session.
Mobility massage is a session focused on your flexibility, joints, and range of motion. Combining modalities like Thai, range of motion, and stretching therapies, this can be added to barefoot sessions to some degree.
Stretch therapy enhances performance through mobility. This modality of massage can incorporate more dynamic movements with varying active assisted range of motion(as-rom) and passive range of motion(p-rom) techniques based on your needs and the goals of the session.
Soft cup cupping is a powerful therapeutic technique that has been used for centuries to promote healing and relaxation.
Perfect for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being, soft cup cupping can be added to any session or booked as a stand-alone treatment.
Curious about the fascinating science behind cupping? This therapy works by first creating a vacuum inside the cup. This suction encourages fresh blood and oxygen to the affected area, increasing circulation, promoting healing, releasing tense and tight muscles, and reducing pain and discomfort.
Why Barefoot Massage?
Beloved by San Luis Obispo locals and travelers – including those with consistent chronic pain, moms, athletes, paramedics, and more – our barefoot massage technique helps our clients:
-
Reduce stress and anxiety
-
Relieve aches and pain
-
Improve circulation and flexibility
We help encourage the body’s natural healing potential by helping our clients release chronic holding patterns resulting from stress, pain, or anxiety.
Barefoot massage is the best massage for those who are seeking deep tension release without the pain or bruising that can occur from traditional deep tissue massage.
Creating deep strokes with the massage therapists’ feet, leveraging gravity-assisted depth and compression, Ashiatsu delivers a deep massage suitable for beginners and experienced massage goers.
Our Specialty: A Unique Combination of Eastern and Western Techniques
Ashiatsu has its roots in Eastern forms of bodywork healing, and there are numerous related styles of barefoot massage dating back thousands of years through Asia, India, Africa, and the Pacific Rim.
Barefoot massage is a combination of the Western and Eastern forms of deep tissue technique. Over time, these techniques expanded West and became more integrated with Western bodywork techniques such as Swedish and deep tissue, among others.
How Does Barefoot Massage Compare to a Traditional Massage?
This unique method of expertly applying and holding the right amount of pressure through the feet using the weight of the practitioner's body:
-
Supports the release of fascia adhesions in the body
-
Relieves soreness
-
Allows the loosening of body holding patterns
Barefoot massage goes deeper into the soft tissue than your average deep tissue session by providing held, concentrated pressure and compression to the muscle tissue.
Through centrifugal foot movements and with longer massage strokes in this technique, clients experience:
-
Improved circulation through the muscular system.
-
Stimulate the lymphatic and parasympathetic nervous system.
-
General health improvement, including organ and muscular function.
-
Improved sense of well-being.
The Ashiatsu massage technique we use today at Barefoot Bodyworks SLO is an integration of various styles and methods based on the client's needs. By combining our expertise of Eastern & Western techniques, we can deliver the best massage suited to our client’s needs.
Experience Our Specialty.
Book Your Session Now.
"This is by far the best massage I have ever had. Missy is a skilled and intuitive bodyworker. She is very knowledgeable of her craft and cares deeply for her clients. I trust her implicitly with my massage care."
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
Jennifer - 2019
Frequently Asked Questions
Curious to learn more about our massage treatments?
Hear responses to your top questions from our Founder,
Missy Anderson-Fritch.
-
Do barefoot massages hurt? Are you walking on my back?Barefoot massages should not hurt, period. Discomfort can happen in bodywork, but the pain should be a “hurt so good” type of pain rather than an “ouch” pain. The pressure is traditionally firm, but always communicate with us if your pain is too much or too little so we can adjust. No. We are not walking on your back. We use a variety of techniques, including longer strokes through the therapist's feet in specific areas of the body to apply pressure holds. Aka– helping you release tension, stress, and pain so you can walk away feeling deeply relaxed.
-
Can you adjust the massage pressure if it’s too much?Yes. I can adjust the pressure, angle, and target area with precision to ensure the pressure is suitable for your needs. Throughout any massage, please let the therapist know to adjust the pressure if needed.
-
Does the pressure have to be extremely deep?Nope. Pressure is firm, but can range from a deep Swedish level to a deep Myofascial pressure. Any discomfort should be tolerable and on the good side of “hurt so good”. With over 24 years of massage experience and 14 years specializing in Barefoot Massage, I can adjust the pressure, intensity, angle, and direction of pressure with precision to your comfort level. Discomfort happens when addressing tissues with certain issues and injuries. Always communicate with any massage professional when the pressure is too much or not enough.
-
Can you still focus on specific areas of pain or discomfort?Yes. While the massage therapist uses their feet for the application, this technique is highly effective for targeting specific areas, including back pain, neck pain, low back pain, shoulder or arm pain, hamstring or thigh pain, calf pain, and foot pain. Before your session, let your therapist know what your main focus is, and they can recommend a treatment for you.
-
Are barefoot massages relaxing?Yes. Ashiatsu barefoot massages are naturally relaxing because of the broad application and deeper strokes. With the foot being a larger surface area, deeper pressure can be evenly distributed. This allows a slow, relaxing experience as the muscles release and stress eases away. With the consistent, rhythmic compression, the muscles have a “melt away” effect, allowing the muscle to ease tension gradually.
-
Do I take all my clothes off for a barefoot massage?Yes and no. For any of our barefoot massages, you should always undress to the level that you feel the most comfortable and secure with. The barefoot massage technique is traditionally performed with clothing removed, and clients are draped (or covered) by a sheet for your privacy and comfort. For deep-tissue barefoot massage, the top two reasons clothing is removed: I use oil, wax, and or lotion in our sessions. Removing clothing ensures your clothes do not get stained. I can access bigger muscle groups that hold greater tension. To receive the most effective application of barefoot massage techniques for areas like the gluteus or the traps, removing clothing allows the therapist to correctly apply these ancient techniques as intended. You can still receive the benefits of barefoot massage with clothing on, it’s just not the most effective. For a Fijian or Mobility massage, you can leave your clothing on. It is best to wear comfortable loose and/or stretchy clothing for these sessions.
-
Can you feel my knots with your feet?Yes, I absolutely can! Believe it or not, I frequently get asked if I can feel with my feet compared to my hands. Did you know that the feet have over 200,000 nerve endings vs. the hands with only 17,000? Plus, the curves of the feet naturally fit the curves of the muscles in the body. With all those nerve endings, countless hours in training and learning, and over 14 years of Barefoot experience, I can deliver an intuitive and precise barefoot massage.
-
How does the massage therapist prepare their feet for the massage?The massage therapist prepares their feet just as we would our hands in a traditional massage. We wash our feet with hot soap and water before and after each session For any massage treatment, we have the highest standards of care, including cleanliness, sanitation, and COVID 19 practices. Please let us know when scheduling your appointment if you prefer your massage therapist to be wearing a mask for your session.
-
Is barefoot massage safe to receive?Yes. Barefoot massage is safe when received from a trained, certified practitioner or therapist. All therapists at Barefoot Bodyworks SLO are certified by the state of California and have been certified in Ashiatsu barefoot massage. As always, please disclose your health concerns, previous injuries, prescripted medications, and any areas of concern with your therapist prior to your session. Our team will have you fill out an intake form when you visit. If you are unsure, consult your doctor prior to scheduling your appointment to see if barefoot massage is a fit for you.
-
This is my first barefoot massage. How should I prepare?For all barefoot massage sessions, your therapist will discuss your primary needs, focus areas, and the level of pressure you prefer. Our therapists are attentive, certified, and skilled to create a tailored experience for your session. What to expect during your barefoot massage: A calm and clean environment. At Barefoot Bodyworks SLO, we host single and couples massages in our private rooms. With the highest standard of sanitation and care, enjoy our comfortable studio and lobby as part of your treatment. Communication with your therapist. Throughout the massage, expect regular check-ins with your therapist to ensure the pressure is just right. Balance bars on the ceiling. Our therapists use the balance bars attached to the ceiling to create controlled support and pressure application for your massage session. Dress down to your comfort. We provide sheet covering and draping throughout the session, similar to a traditional full-body massage. Less pain and bruising than with traditional deep tissue massages. Because the therapist delivers the massage through the feet, the application of pressure is more diffuse than using Western methods.
-
What are your business hours?We are open Tuesday through Saturday and closed on Sundays and Mondays. Sunday: Closed Monday: Closed Tuesday: 10am - 4pm Wednesday: 10am - 6pm Thursday: 10am - 6pm Friday: 10am - 6pm Saturday: 9:30am - 4pm To reserve an appointment, you can book online at Vagaro or call (805) 610-7403.
-
What is your cancellation policy?Our policy is to cancel at least 48 hours prior to your massage to avoid any cancellation charges. If you cancel within that period, it’s a 50% cancellation fee.
-
Where is Barefoot Bodyworks SLO located in San Luis Obispo?We are located at 107 Johnson Ave., San Luis Obispo, California 93401.
-
Do you have parking?Yes, we have a private parking lot with a few spaces available or there is additional parking on the street.
-
Do you have an on-site shower?We do not have an on-site shower, but we do have a sink and can provide you with natural sanitary wipes to remove any excess lotion or oil after your session.
-
Do you offer gift certificates?Yes, we do offer gift certificates. You can call us to purchase a gift certificate for the dollar amount you’d like to choose. You can view our services here to see pricing, or give us a call at (805) 610-7403 and we’re happy to assist you.
-
Do you have massage discounts, packages or memberships?We do offer both packages and membership discounts for clients who want weekly, monthly, or bi-monthly treatments. Save more with our Membership and Packages and view on our services page.
-
Do you offer a military discount?We offer a 5% military discount to our veterans and active duty military. Please prepare to show your Military ID upon arrival.
Have More Questions?
We're Happy to Answer.
“Today was my second visit to Barefoot Bodyworks, and it was just as good as the first time. Missy is a master at her craft. The deep tissue technique she uses is amazing… worth every penny.”
⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ ⭐
James - 2021
Benefits of Receiving
Monthly Massages
With the tremendous benefits of receiving barefoot massage, receiving regular and consistent massage sessions over time has many health benefits, including:
-
Pain Reduction
-
Improved Range of Motion
-
Improved Flexibility
-
Enhanced Sleep Quality
-
Reduced Stress
-
Reduced Muscular Inflammation
-
Improved Posture
-
Immune System Improvements
-
And more
Services & Pricing
Single Full Body Massage Sessions
For all barefoot massage sessions, your therapist will discuss your primary needs and preferred pressure. Whether you prefer a deep tissue barefoot massage or a more relaxing barefoot massage, we can accommodate your needs. Our massage pricing is based on full body sessions or for modified target areas.
-
30-minute Session: $65
-
60-minute Session: $135
-
90-minute Session: $200
-
120-minute Session: $280
-
150-minute Session: $335
Mobility Massage & Stretching Sessions
Mobility sessions are ideal for stiff muscles and joints. These sessions help maintain good posture, circulation, and aid in pain relief. Our unique combination of modalities ensures your aches and pains melt away.
-
75-minute Session: $165
-
105-minute Session: $235
Cupping Therapy Sessions
Adding cupping to your session helps to focus on relieving pain in the back, neck, and shoulders. Known to help aid the lymphatic system, soft cupping is also known to help alleviate joint discomfort and promote holistic healing.
-
25-minute Session: $35
-
45-minute Session: $75
Memberships
& Packages
Build Your Massage Regimen and Save
Are you ready to commit to relief and relaxation with a regular barefoot massage session? Our Membership and Package options are designed with you in mind. With flexible booking options, plus additional advantages & perks, you can select the membership or package that is right for you.
Massage Therapy Packages
Packages are a wonderful way to establish a commitment to your health with regular bodywork, allowing for a focused program for sessions and/or maintaining sessions. These packages are also shareable between family members and friends.
-
$40 off package of 4 sessions
-
$60 off package of 6 sessions
-
$80 off package of 8 sessions
Year-Round Relief with
Barefoot Bodyworks SLO
Massage Membership
Imagine — how would you feel one year from now if you prioritized just one massage a month?
Look forward to your monthly full-body massage session by choosing a flexible membership that’s right for you. Maintain ultimate mobility and make real progress on reducing pain and stress in your body and mind.
Save over $180 a year for a monthly session with our membership.
Cancel anytime with 30 day notice.
Your Membership includes:
🔖 Discounted Sessions
Enjoy a $15 discount on our regular session prices.
🌿 Add-On Discounts
Enhance your experience with CBD or Cupping add-ons,
now available at a 5% and 8% discount.
🎁 Gift and Share
Each month, you can purchase a gift or schedule an additional session at the exclusive membership rate, making it easy to share the gift of wellness with loved ones.
🎉 Birthday Gift
You can choose from an extra 30 minutes or a cupping session added to your birth month session.
🔄 Automatic Renewal
Your membership will automatically renew at your preferred interval, ensuring you don’t miss your consistent self-care.
🗓 Session Flexibility
Your membership sessions are valid for 1 1/2 billing cycles, giving you ample time to use them as your schedule permits. After this time, you will lose that session. Plus, you can share these sessions with friends and family linked to your account, spreading the joy of relaxation.*
*Friends and family must be listed on your account prior to booking.
Membership Pricing and Options
1. Choose which sessions you’d like for your membership.
Pricing below reflects a $15 discount applied per session.
-
30-minute Barefoot Massage Session: $50
-
60-minute Barefoot Massage Session: $120
-
90-minute Barefoot Massage Session: $185
-
120-minute Barefoot Massage Session: $265
-
75 Minute Mobility Massage: $150
-
105 Minute Mobility Massage: $220
2. Choose how often you’d like to enjoy a session.
The following membership intervals are available.
-
Bi-monthly
-
Monthly
-
Every 2 Months
-
Every 6 Weeks
-
2 Sessions Monthly
-
4 Sessions Monthly
Prefer To Enroll With Us Directly Instead?
Call or Text: (805) 610-7403
or
Wellness Resources
