Why the 2026 FasciAshi Fundamentals Class is Worth a Second Look (Even If You're Experienced)

If you've trained in barefoot massage somewhere else and were hoping to jump into Intermediate or Advanced FasciAshi training, you'll want to take note:

Starting in 2026, the Center for Barefoot Massage (CBM) will require all students—regardless of past training or current certification—to complete its FasciAshi Fundamentals class before advancing to any higher-level or specialty classes.

Even if you've already taken Intermediate or ROM with CBM:

If you didn't take our official FasciAshi Fundamentals, you'll need to complete it first before moving into Advanced, Clinical Neck, or any future specialty classes.

As a CBM instructor, I fully support this shift. Over the years, I've worked with many experienced therapists who came from other barefoot programs. While they often bring passion and commitment to their work,

I've seen common issues—poor body mechanics, overly aggressive pressure, and habits that put strain on their own bodies and their clients'. More often than not, the disconnect stems from not having the foundation that CBM builds from Day 1. That foundation is more important than ever with the newly updated Fundamentals launching in 2026.

What's New in 2026?

The updated FasciAshi Fundamentals is more than just a reboot—it's a deeper, smarter foundation created to elevate how you think about and deliver barefoot massage. Here's what's new:

Pain Science Integration

We explore how pressure, sensation, and perception work together to support the nervous system to create real, lasting change in the body.

Evidence-Informed Fascia Work

You'll gain resources that connect fascia research, interoception, and biomechanics with what you're feeling under your feet—helping you work more intuitively and effectively.

Myth-Busting Discussions

We tackle outdated massage-school narratives and replace them with current, science-supported insights that make your work safer and more impactful.

CBM's Signature Ashi Strap Use

Unlike most barefoot massage programs, CBM teaches the use of a proprietary Ashi strap, designed to help you refine your control, pacing, and body mechanics. It's a tool that sets our training apart and supports long-term sustainability in your work.

Refined Teaching Materials

From updated manuals to more intentional pacing, every aspect of class is designed to help you learn efficiently—and leave feeling confident in your feet.

"But I Already Know Barefoot Massage..."

I hear this a lot—and I get it! But I also see how overwhelmed students can get when they first learn barefoot massage.

Traveling to class, learning a new modality, using your body in a completely different way—it's a lot. Most students are still absorbing the basics and don't fully integrate the techniques until much later. That's why repeating Fundamentals often leads to breakthrough moments, even for experienced therapists.

I've watched repeat students return with a new perspective and leave with better body mechanics, a deeper understanding of fascia, and greater confidence in their feet. These are the students who usually build full barefoot practices—and have healthier, happier clients as a result.

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Join Me in January 2026

My first class of the new year is the updated FasciAshi Fundamentals, happening January 22–24, 2026, at NC Ashiatsu.

If it's been a while, or if you've never trained in CBM's Fundamentals, now's the perfect time to reconnect with your feet and rediscover just how powerful this work can be.

Let's start 2026 with strong roots—and even stronger barefoot massage.