Meet Alyssa Flores | Licensed Massage Therapist, Ashiatsu DeepFeet Bar Therapy® Certified Instructor of Texas

We had the good fortune of connecting with Alyssa Flores and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Alyssa, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my business, ashidojo Barefoot Massage Studio, was the culmination of my years of dedication to holistic healing and barefoot massage. My journey began just under two decades ago, motivated by a deep passion for the transformative potential of barefoot bodywork. I envisioned a space where clients could experience profound relief and therapists could thrive in a supportive, ego-free environment.

A pivotal part of my decision was my experience working in environments where, unfortunately, ego and competition sometimes overshadowed support and growth. I wanted to take that negative experience and transform it, creating a space where therapists could feel safe, valued, and empowered. At ashidojo, the goal was to build a community where therapists are encouraged to practice, explore, and expand their focus in barefoot massage modalities, free from judgment or hierarchy.

This vision of a safe and inclusive space extends to my clients as well. In each session, I aim to meet clients on a personal level, providing a nurturing environment that fosters a sense of relief, connection, and respect for their unique wellness journey. My practice emphasizes an intuitive, customized approach to bodywork that honors both the client’s needs and the therapist’s well-being.

Starting ashidojo has allowed me to combine these passions: delivering compassionate care to clients and creating a welcoming, ego-free space where therapists can pursue their own growth and longevity in this field. It’s immensely fulfilling to watch both clients and colleagues thrive in an environment built on respect, compassion, and authenticity.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
ashidojo Barefoot Massage Studio is a unique embodiment of my 18 years of experience, offering the most extensive range of barefoot massage and bodywork modalities available nationwide. From therapeutic and neuromuscular approaches to deep tissue, myofascial release, sports massage, and stretch therapy, I blend traditional Eastern practices with clinical expertise utilizing barefoot techniques from ancient practices (some tracing back to over 2,000 years old) to create sessions that are both relaxing and highly effective. My practice is rooted in techniques that alleviate chronic pain, enhance range of motion, and provide relief from sports injuries—each session tailored to fit the unique needs of every client.

What truly sets ashidojo apart is this blend of versatility and depth. Whether someone is looking for deep relaxation or more clinical support, I’ve developed a space where they can find exactly what they need and feel confident in the expertise they’re receiving. I warmly welcome everyone to my studio and onto my table for an experience that’s not only effective but also personalized to their body and lifestyle.

Building my business has been incredibly fulfilling, but it certainly hasn’t been without challenges. Early on, I observed how some workplaces allowed ego and competition to get in the way of genuine support, and I decided I wanted to create something different. ashidojo was founded to be an ego-free, safe, and collaborative space for both clients and fellow therapists—a place where therapists can train, grow, and share without judgment, and where clients know they are truly valued.

The lessons I’ve learned are many: the importance of resilience, the value of community, and the ongoing commitment to staying connected to my clients’ and students’ needs. Through it all, I hope ashidojo reflects not only my dedication to advanced barefoot bodywork but also my belief in the transformative power of a compassionate, authentic approach to wellness.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was in town, I’d want to show them all the best spots around Denton and North Texas, from my go-to hangouts to some hidden gems! We’d kick things off with brunch at Barley & Board on the Denton Square, soaking in the cozy vibe and enjoying the local food scene right from day one. Afterward, we’d wander around, stopping by Recycled Books (the coolest multi-level bookstore in an old opera house) and DIME Store for local art and crafts. We’d grab some dinner on the square at LSA Burger Co., sitting up on the rooftop with live music and Texas-inspired burgers—it’s the perfect way to feel the local energy.

One night, I’d take them to Paschall Bar—a hidden speakeasy upstairs with a vintage feel and some of the best cocktails around. From there, Dan’s Silverleaf would be the next stop to enjoy Denton’s live music scene, especially if there’s jazz or blues playing. And if we’re ready for a Texas-sized steak, Queenie’s Steakhouse has us covered with delicious, upscale dishes that still give a nod to Texas roots.

For some outdoor fun, we’d make a trip to Ray Roberts Lake State Park—a beautiful spot just outside Denton, perfect for hiking, kayaking, or just hanging by the lake with a picnic. On the flip side, a day trip to Dallas or Fort Worth would be a blast! Dallas has the Dallas Museum of Art and the quirky Bishop Arts District, full of unique shops and cafes. Fort Worth’s Stockyards are always a hit for their old-school Texas charm, or we could go to the Kimbell Art Museum for a bit of culture.

To keep things balanced, I’d definitely set up some downtime for us. We’d start one morning with coffee at West Oak Coffee Bar and maybe stop by Salted Sanctuary Soap for some self-care goodies. Then, I’d treat my friend to a session at my studio, ashidojo Barefoot Massage Studio—gotta show them the magic of barefoot massage! Afterward, Komodo Loco would be a perfect dinner spot to experience some creative Asian fusion dishes in a relaxed setting.

For our last hurrah, brunch at Seven Mile Cafe is a must—this place is a local favorite with great food and an easygoing vibe. Denton’s full of artsy, local flavor, and I’d want them to feel like they really got to experience the best of it. From music and food to the little surprises that make Denton unique, we’d make some great memories!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In my journey as a massage therapist, there are several people and experiences I owe so much to, each representing a vital piece of the foundation of my practice. First and foremost, my husband, Joseph Flores, deserves immense credit and recognition. His unwavering support, patience, and guidance have been my anchor through every step. Whether it was encouraging me to follow my passions or simply being there on the challenging days, Joseph’s presence has been invaluable.

I also want to dedicate a heartfelt shoutout to my mother, who inspired me early on. She began her studies in massage therapy when I was nine, showing me firsthand the power of helping others heal, and that experience planted the seeds for my own path in bodywork.

DeepFeet Bar Therapy® and its founder, Ruthie Piper Hardee, have also been instrumental in my story. The techniques and ethos of barefoot massage that Ruthie pioneered have taught me how to deepen client connections while taking care of myself as a therapist. Today, as a certified DeepFeet instructor, I’m honored to share this modality with others and pass on the principles that have shaped my career.

Lastly, my clients are a constant source of inspiration. Their trust, openness, and dedication to their wellness journey push me to continually refine my practice and remind me of the profound impact of this work.

Each of these individuals and experiences has played a meaningful role in my journey, and I’m deeply grateful for the support, love, and guidance they’ve provided.

Website: https://ashidojo.square.site/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ashidojo/

Twitter: https://x.com/ashidojo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ashidojo

Other: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ What clients are saying:
Google: https://g.co/kgs/s5rWh5
TripAdvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g55732-d26846255-Reviews-Ashidojo-Denton_Texas.html

Image Credits
Vincent De La Cruz
Joseph Flores