What I Learned at the World Massage Festival & American Massage Championships 2026
Every year I wonder if it's worth stepping outside my comfort zone.
Every year, the answer becomes a little more obvious.
This year's journey to the American Massage Championships 2026 and World Massage Festival wasn't just about competing—it was about growth, community, and remembering why I fell in love with massage therapy in the first place.
Traveling Into the Unknown
As I headed out on Wednesday evening, I felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety. I was looking forward to seeing so many friends in the massage community, but I also knew this year would be different.
For the first time, I was competing without Abby by my side. I suddenly found myself wondering who I'd ask for help, how I'd manage moving my Ashiatsu bars, and whether I truly belonged in these competitions. It's funny how even after 26 years as a massage therapist, those feelings of self-doubt can still creep in.
On my way to Cherokee, North Carolina, I stopped in Atlanta to have breakfast with my niece before taking the scenic route through Dry Falls. It was the perfect reminder that sometimes the best parts of a trip happen when you slow down.
A Spa Experience That Reminded Me Why We Do This Work
Before the competition began, I treated myself to a morning at the resort spa.
I enjoyed a sound healing session, a Fire & Ice massage, an eyebrow wax, and a pedicure. Everything about the experience reflected what a luxury spa should feel like—from the soaring ceilings and beautiful relaxation spaces to the sauna, hot tub, and peaceful atmosphere.
My massage therapist, Rhoda, delivered one of those treatments that reminds you why our profession matters. During the sound healing, she placed Tibetan singing bowls directly on my body, allowing the vibrations to resonate through different areas. It was incredible.
What stood out even more was what she didn't do.
She didn't fill the room with conversation.
She simply allowed me to rest.
As therapists, we sometimes forget that silence can be one of the greatest gifts we offer our clients. When someone comes in seeking peace, allowing quiet moments to exist can be just as healing as our techniques.
I left feeling deeply relaxed—and even more inspired.
Competition Day
Friday was all about preparation for the American Massage Championships 2026.
After orientation, I helped unload equipment for the DeepFeet booth, set up my Ashiatsu bars, and assisted other competitors. Thankfully, I had wonderful people willing to lend a hand, which eased many of the worries I'd been carrying.
Still, clinical competition day came with plenty of logistics.
My bars had to be moved between different floors of the resort, my treatment room was separate from the main competition space, and everything had to happen on a strict timeline.
Clinical competition allows only five minutes for assessment, twenty-five minutes of treatment, and five minutes for reassessment and home care recommendations.
It's fast.
It's intense.
And somehow, it's over before you know it.
Why These Competitions Matter
During the competitor orientation, one comment really stuck with me.
The judges reminded us that these events aren't simply performances. They are still about creating an effective treatment, building connection with the client, and delivering an exceptional experience.
That resonated with me.
Sometimes we spend years working in our treatment rooms without realizing we've fallen into routines. Our clients notice. We notice.
These competitions force us to ask:
How can I become better?
How can I create a more meaningful experience?
My own spa treatment reminded me that healing isn't always found in complicated techniques. Often it's found in beautiful transitions, thoughtful pauses, intentional touch, and giving clients permission to simply be.
Those moments matter.
Competition Results
Saturday finally arrived.
My clinical client presented with neck and shoulder complaints—right in my comfort zone. I was able to perform the exact style of treatment I love, incorporating Ashiatsu through prone, side-lying, and supine positions.
Later that afternoon came the Barefoot Massage category.
This year we had six competitors, which was exciting to see. The quality of work was incredible, and it was inspiring to watch barefoot massage continue to grow.
That evening I attended a poolside sound bath where participants could either float in the water or relax in lounge chairs. I chose the lounge chair—and I don't think I stayed awake very long.
Silver Medal
Sunday brought awards.
I didn't place in Clinical this year.
Honestly, I expected that.
Clinical massage is still evolving in the competition world, especially when it comes to demonstrating the effectiveness of Ashiatsu. I'll continue showing what's possible because I truly believe barefoot massage deserves recognition as an exceptional clinical treatment.
The surprise came when Barefoot Massage results were announced.
Silver Medal.
I couldn't have been happier.
After earning bronze last year, taking silver this year felt like confirmation that the work I'm putting in is moving in the right direction.
Congratulations to Alyssa Covey, who earned gold with an outstanding performance. Her creativity, use of hot stones, and overall presentation were exceptional, and she absolutely deserved the win.
Learning Never Stops
One of my favorite classes after the competition was the Stark Method. It introduced creative uses of partially inflated therapy balls and offered new ways of approaching movement and treatment.
Throughout the weekend I also saw therapists incorporating Pilates equipment, custom-built tools, and innovative stretching techniques into their work.
Innovation is everywhere when massage therapists gather together.
That's something I never fully appreciated until attending these events.
My Biggest Takeaway
A few years ago, I thought massage competitions were little more than a circus.
I couldn't have been more wrong.
Today, I see them as places where our profession evolves.
Massage therapists spend most of their careers behind closed treatment room doors. We work one-on-one with clients, often in silence. While that work is incredibly meaningful, it can also become isolating.
The only way our profession continues to grow is by getting out of our treatment rooms.
We have to share ideas.
We have to collaborate.
We have to watch each other work.
We have to inspire one another.
This weekend reminded me that massage is far bigger than any one therapist.
I'm incredibly grateful to my friend China Facchini for convincing me to attend these events a few years ago. Saying yes has expanded my community, challenged my thinking, and made me a better therapist and instructor.
Now I'm even more excited to continue building that same sense of community here in California.
Because when massage therapists come together, we all get better—and so do the clients we serve.
In this video, Lynn Smet, California DeepFeet Instructor, talks about how DeepFeet Bar Therapy can level up your services in many ways. While it provides a deeper massage with no strain on you wrists, DeepFeet has been a game changer for many clients and therapists.
In this video, Lynn, California DeepFeet Instructor, talks about how she has had clients that try DeepFeet and never go back to a traditional Swedish massage. DeepFeet has been a game changer for many clients!
In this video, Lynn talks about why she teaches California DeepFeet and what she loves most about it.
For over two decades, I’ve stood on the sidelines watching the rise of competitive massage events like the International Massage Association (IMA) championships and the American Massage Championships (AMC) with a healthy dose of skepticism. From afar, the performative aspect of these events often felt more like a talent show than a serious representation of the craft I’ve devoted my life to. I’ll admit—there was a part of me that took that personally, like it somehow reflected on the legitimacy of our pr...
So I stayed away.
But in 2024, something shifted.
Two of my fellow DeepFeet instructors, China Facchini and Al Poliarco, decided to fully embrace the world of massage competitions. Not only did they dive in, they made it their mission to represent barefoot massage on the big stage—becoming state directors, organizing regional competitions through the American Competitive Massage Alliance, and advocating for our work to be taken seriously at a national level.
Thanks to their persistence, the AMC finally introduced its first-ever barefoot massage category. And that’s when I knew—I had to show up. Not for the accolades or performance, but to support these two amazing humans who have poured their energy into making space for our community. Al and China aren’t just colleagues. They help me run Sole-ful Connection Hour each month. We’ve spent countless hours brainstorming, texting, emailing, Zooming… but rarely are we in the same room together. This trip would cha...
So I said yes.
And of course, if I was going to do it, I had no idea what I should do. I knew I could create a theme and an outfit. I can do this and that was about as performative as I was willing to go. I created an ocean-inspired theme—bubbles hanging from my Ashiatsu bars, ocean themed mats, and a shimmering ocean crown. A nod to the fantasy of Las Vegas, while staying grounded in the healing work I love.
________________________________________
The Road to Las Vegas Massage Championships
On July 23rd, I packed up my van in Livermore, California: three massage tables, two sets of travel bars, four stools, dozens of sheets, prizes, decorations, and an entire Plinko game for our DeepFeet booth. It was a full load, both literally and emotionally. I was stepping out of my comfort zone in a big way.
But the drive to Las Vegas was peaceful. I listened to an audiobook and enjoyed the drive. I made a quick stop in Barstow at Peggy Sue’s 1950s diner (because of course I did), then rolled into the Horseshoe Hotel on the Strip about 2 PM.
My room? Spectacular. Giant bed. Massive bathroom. A view of the Bellagio fountains and the Eiffel Tower from the Paris Hotel—pure magic.
But even with all that excitement, I couldn’t shake the emotional swirl: Will I represent barefoot massage well? Will I make Al and China proud? Will I do DeepFeet justice? Will I feel silly on stage? It was a whirlwind of anticipation, self-doubt, curiosity, and—yes—joy.
________________________________________
Reuniting With the DeepFeet Bar Therapy Team
As if reuniting with Al and China wasn’t exciting enough, our Hawaii-based DeepFeet instructor, Abby Parker, also joined us in Las Vegas. Abby and I have collaborated on Sole-ful Connection Hour for the past year, mostly through texts, Zoom calls, and the occasional run in at the Hawaii airports. So having her here in person was such a treat—and in true DeepFeet fashion, we talked her into competing last minute.
On Friday, Abby and I spent the day exploring the Arte Museum, a stunning immersive art space. That night, we joined 90 other therapists for orientation. When they announced barefoot massage as an official category, we cheered louder than anyone. We assembled bars, prepped our booth, networked, and soaked in the excitement.
________________________________________
Saturday: First Competition Rounds
Saturday, Abby competed in the clinical category, using barefoot massage. I helped her set up—some competitors even bring teams to stage their setups! Later, I received a relaxing Swedish massage from a fellow therapist. After lunch, the judges offered five-minute demo clinics that were fun, inspiring, and totally engaging.
The evening ended with a powerful sound bath by Levon, and let me tell you—he was absolutely amazing.
________________________________________
Barefoot Massage Competition: My First Experience
Sunday was my turn. I created a photo to visually explain my fusion service: Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy, Thai Massage, and myofascial techniques from Advanced-Trainings. My model ended up being a former student—now a judge—which helped ease my nerves. But performing a 65-minute service while trying to impress, stay on time, and do something innovative? That’s next-level pressure!
Still, I got in the zone. I did the work. I stayed present.
After my session, we had to tear down quickly—moving bars, tables, gear—and then I was lucky enough to receive a body sculpting and lymphatic drainage session from Rachel of Michigan. I had pre-judged this category and this service, and she absolutely blew me away. It opened my mind completely and now I need to find someone who does body sculpting.
Later that night, we watched the Grand Prix judge showcase. My student Jenny performed a hilarious skit about the chaos of massage room roles. And Al? He delivered a deeply moving barefoot massage piece under soft lighting, with a didgeridoo playing behind him. It was stunning.
________________________________________
Awards & Celebration
Then came the medals.
Abby took silver.
I took bronze.
One of my students placed third in clinical.
My other student Jenny won the Grad Prix!!!
It was such a proud moment—for all of us. That night, we capped it off with a beautiful rooftop dinner hosted by the World Massage Festival, high above the Las Vegas Strip.
________________________________________
World Massage Festival Highlights in Las Vegas
Monday morning kicked off the World Massage Festival. The vendor hall opened at 9 a.m. and was buzzing with over a thousand therapists. We worked the DeepFeet booth all day, sharing tips, giving massages, connecting, and—of course—running the Plinko game.
It was a hit. We gave away everything from foot creams to foot stickers to Starbucks cards and doTERRA oils. But most of all, we gave away knowledge and encouragement—exchanging ideas with other therapists and celebrating the work we all do.
Monday night brought the Parade of Flags and a lively opening party. The energy was contagious.
________________________________________
Tuesday: Tech Chaos & AshiSutra
Tuesday brought our live Sole-ful Connection Hour —and a whole lot of technical chaos.
We attempted to host our monthly Sole-ful Connection Hour live from the vendor hall… and failed in the most ridiculous and hilarious ways. My phone camera wouldn’t cooperate. Zoom logins wouldn’t work. Bluetooth went in and out. And mid-call, the festival emcee started blasting announcements over the PA. We had to scrap it and re-record later. Classic Vegas.
We also showcased Al’s AshiSutra demo, which was a crowd favorite. That evening, the team headed off the Strip for a quiet dinner—some time to unwind and reflect.
________________________________________
Wednesday: Co-Teaching & Connection
Wednesday, China and I taught the Bars Free course together—and it was amazing. After a year and a half of virtual collaboration, we finally got to teach side-by-side. The flow between us was natural and supportive. We taught 11 students with a mix of experience, covering seated, posterior, anterior, and side lying routines.
More than just instruction, the day was about connection and relationship-building.
By evening, our booth was nearly packed, the van mostly loaded, and the karaoke party was in full swing. But I chose to rest—grateful, inspired, and deeply fulfilled from everything this week had brought.
________________________________________
Lessons Learned From Competing in Massage Competitions
After eight full days—competing for the first time, staying for the World Massage Festival, running the DeepFeet booth, hosting Sole-ful Connection Hour, and co-teaching the Bars Free class—my heart was so full.
Spending that time with three other DeepFeet instructors—Abby, Al, and China—was something special. We didn’t just represent barefoot massage; we lived it. We laughed, worked, taught, supported one another, and shared our favorite tips and tricks. It was one of those rare moments where professional passion and personal connection perfectly overlapped.
Beyond our team, I had the chance to chat with so many incredible massage therapists, educators, and product creators. I left feeling energized by the collaboration and innovation happening behind the scenes in our industry. There's a real pulse of creativity and community growing stronger every year.
And maybe most surprisingly, I left with something I didn’t expect: a desire to compete again.
It turns out that my old assumptions about massage competitions had some room to be challenged. This wasn’t about ego or showmanship—it was about showing up for our craft, being proud of what we do, and celebrating each other in the process.
I also felt a renewed sense of responsibility. There’s a real need for Gen Xers and Millennials in our field to start networking, learning, and connecting. We need to step up, reach out, and learn from the Boomers who have built so much of the foundation we’re standing on. Their knowledge is a treasure trove—and we must carry it forward.
Yes, we work hard to be taken seriously as massage professionals. But it’s just as important to play, to gather, to share joy, and to amplify massage’s impact in the world. What better way to do that than by building authentic relationships and community?
I’m coming home inspired, grateful, and ready for what’s next.
And I’ll see you at the next one.
Want to experience barefoot massage yourself? Book your Ashiatsu session at Sole Massage Therapy
Massage Menu Demystified: Your Playful Guide to Massage Styles
Why is picking the perfect massage treatment akin to deciphering hieroglyphics in the dark? Because you need a massage dictionary to decode the myriad styles and services offered by spas.
Welcome to your light-hearted yet informative guide to deciphering the world of massage styles.
Swedish Massage
The Macarena of massages – everyone knows it. This classic oil-based massage uses long, flowing strokes. Pressure ranges from light and soothing to deep and firm.
You’ll often see it listed as:
- Swedish Relaxation Massage
- Swedish Deep Tissue Massage
Book one today!
Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy
Picture a Swedish oil-based massage, but the therapist uses their feet instead of hands. With overhead bars for balance, the strokes are graceful, deep, and consistent.
👉 Known as the heavyweight champion of deep tissue massage.
Book your service today!
Ashi/Thai
Think Thai massage with a twist. Using overhead bars for balance, therapists use their feet for stretching and compression techniques. Perfect if you want deep pressure + flexibility.
Book with me today!
Sarga Bodywork
The MacGyver of massages. It blends Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy and Rolfing—but instead of bars, the therapist uses a yoga silk for balance.
Rolfing (Structural Integration)
A ten-session protocol focused on joint mobility and posture. No oil, no fluff—just structural alignment magic for those dealing with chronic issues.
Advanced Myofascial Massage
Massage school on steroids. With little to no oil, therapists target structural imbalances, stiff joints, fascia, tendons, and ligaments. It’s about freeing stuck tissue.
Lomi Lomi Massage
Straight from Hawaii. Therapists use forearms in flowing, wave-like strokes that feel rhythmic and soothing—like being carried by the ocean.
Thai Massage
Yoga without the effort. Done fully clothed, often on a mat, it combines stretching, compression, and mobility work. Perfect for flexibility and energy flow.
Shiatsu
A Japanese style influenced by Chinese medicine. Performed clothed, on the floor or table, it uses pressure along energy meridians (Sen lines). Balancing and grounding.
Fijian Massage
Floor-based, clothed, and focused on stretching and compression. A laid-back cousin of Thai massage, helping the body unwind.
Reiki / Pranic Healing
The energy work modalities. Gentle, often hands-off, and focused on balancing life force energy. Subtle yet deeply calming.
Craniosacral Therapy
The “feather touch” technique. With only 5 grams of pressure, therapists tune into cerebrospinal fluid rhythm to support nervous system balance.
Therapeutic Massage
The all-arounder. Pressure is tailored to your needs—whether relaxation, sports recovery, or pain relief. At Sole Massage Therapy, we call it “therapeutic” because all massage has a bit of magic in it.
Which Massage Should You Choose?
- Want pure relaxation or classic deep tissue with hands/forearms? → Book Therapeutic Massage
- Want consistent deep tissue pressure with feet? → Book Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy
- Want stretching and mobility? → Book Ashi/Thai Massage
Final Thoughts
Now that you’ve got the inside scoop on massage styles, you’ll be able to order from the massage menu with confidence—no dictionary required.
Ready to experience one of these styles yourself? Book your massage at Sole Massage Therapy today!
Massage therapy is continuously evolving and gaining recognition for its role in managing chronic pain, reducing stress, and providing human connection through touch. As you embark on your journey in massage therapy, prioritizing continuing education is essential. With numerous companies and pathways available, choosing the right one can be daunting. If you've discovered the world of barefoot massage, DeepFeet Bar Therapy stands as the ultimate choice for learning. We are the pioneers in Western barefoot Choosing Between Online and In-Person DeepFeet Bar Therapy Training
If you’re considering Ashiatsu training or looking to advance your skills with DeepFeet Bar Therapy, one of the first questions is: Should I take an in-person class or go online? Both have advantages, and the right choice depends on your schedule, learning style, and goals.
Getting Here: Travel & Accommodation
With our training center located in California’s Bay Area, you have three nearby airport options:
- San Francisco (SFO) – Major international hub, with the widest flight selection.
- Oakland (OAK) – Smaller and often more budget-friendly.
- San Jose (SJC) – Convenient for South Bay and Silicon Valley travelers.
Nearby hotels include Hawthorne Inn & Suites and Best Western, both offering a range of amenities to suit your budget and preferences.
Why Choose In-Person Ashiatsu Training?
Our in-person DeepFeet Bar Therapy courses span 2–3 days and cover:
- Body mechanics & barefoot massage foundations
- Bar construction & safety
- Contraindications & client screening
- Session flow & marketing your practice
Advanced courses go further, focusing on palpation skills and refining barefoot massage techniques.
✨ The biggest advantage? Hands-on learning. You’ll get to feel the work, receive expert feedback in real time, and connect with other therapists on the same path.
✅ Best for: Learners who thrive with structure, live feedback, and hands-on practice.
Why Choose Online Ashiatsu Training?
If travel isn’t possible, our online courses are a flexible alternative. You’ll need:
- A safe bar setup in your space
- Motivation to practice consistently
- Good time management skills
We offer live weekly Zoom sessions for real-time coaching, helping you refine techniques and stay accountable.
✅ Best for: Therapists who need flexibility, self-paced learning, and virtual support.
Which Training Path is Right for You?
The decision comes down to your learning style, schedule, and commitment:
- Choose in-person if you want a fully immersive, guided experience.
- Choose online if you prefer flexibility and can stay motivated independently.
At the end of the day, success in mastering DeepFeet Bar Therapy depends on your dedication and practice. Whichever path you choose, we’ll support you in becoming a confident barefoot massage therapist.
Ready to Begin Your Training?
Don’t wait to elevate your massage practice. Explore upcoming DeepFeet Bar Therapy courses and reserve your spot today.
In the world of sports and athletics, achieving peak performance is the ultimate goal. Whether you’re preparing for a big event or recovering after competition, the right massage therapy can make all the difference.
One technique that stands out as a true game-changer is Ashi-Thai Sports Massage.
What Is Ashi-Thai Sports Massage?
Ashi-Thai is a unique blend of traditional Thai massage and modern barefoot compression techniques. Performed fully clothed and with the aid of an overhead bar system, it delivers deep, targeted pressure and incorporates stretching—making it an ideal choice for athletes.
Benefits of Ashi-Thai Sports Massage
1. Targeted Relief
Ashi-Thai zeroes in on specific problem areas. Whether it’s sore muscles, tight joints, or lingering aches, this method provides focused relief exactly where you need it most.
2. Enhanced Flexibility
Stretching is critical for peak athletic performance. Ashi-Thai builds on traditional Thai techniques, adding dynamic stretches that improve flexibility and increase range of motion.
3. Clothes-On Comfort
Because Ashi-Thai is performed fully clothed, it’s a convenient option for pre-event preparation. Athletes can enjoy the benefits of massage without needing to disrobe—perfect for a quick session before a race or game.
4. Powerful Compression
Using the therapist’s feet instead of hands, Ashi-Thai delivers consistent, deep compression. This approach helps release muscle tension and improve circulation more effectively than many traditional methods.
5. Overhead Bar System Advantage
Therapists use an overhead bar system for balance, allowing them to perform precise stretches and compressions that would be difficult to achieve on a standard massage table. For athletes, this means a deeper, more supportive experience.
Why Athletes Choose Ashi-Thai
With over 23 years of experience in massage therapy, I’ve found that Ashi-Thai Sports Massage is one of the best pre-event treatments available. By combining compression, stretching, and targeted relief, it primes your muscles for performance while reducing the risk of overstretching or fatigue.
Book Your Ashi-Thai Sports Massage in Pleasanton, CA
If you’re in Pleasanton, California and preparing for a sporting event—whether it’s a 5K, marathon, or triathlon—consider adding Ashi-Thai Sports Massage to your training routine.
At Sole Massage Therapy, our team specializes in barefoot massage techniques designed to enhance performance, speed recovery, and keep you at your best.
👉 Book your Ashi-Thai Sports Massage today and give yourself the winning edge.
