Tapping into the Power of the Feet
After spending long hours on the beach or getting lost in the rural areas of the island, the next best thing to do is to put those feet up and rest. Each day, we move around so much that we don’t get to give our feet a rest. Whether it be running, jumping or even just standing, our feet do it all, and no other part of our body is more abused than our feet.
Foot reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt and China. Did you know that over 4,000 years ago our ancestors were rubbing each other’s feet? The feel-good effects of this practice can be achieved by kneading the soft fleshy ball of the foot, pulling on the toes, tracing around the heel and pushing deep into the arch. The intense pressures are necessary in order to affect a physical change to the entire body.
Most people think that foot reflexology is just another word for foot massage, but it is actually much more than that. Professional therapists believe that overall health begins in the feet and travels to the upper body. Put aside the fact that foot massages feel downright great, the benefits are bountiful. This includes preventing diseases, increasing energy, relieving stress, balancing emotional states, improving blood circulation, preventing injury and many more. When certain areas of the foot are stimulated, the treatment can also address anything from headaches, sinus problems to stomach issues.
Foot reflexology is also based on the ancient Chinese principle of qi, the unseen or ethereal energy force that energises and revitalises our bodies. At CHILL Reflexology, the techniques of reflexology and acupressure have evolved from ancient Eastern practices which are designed to stimulate and restore the natural healing forces of the mind, body and spirit. Their signature ‘Classic’ treatment is focused on the foot and ankle area where tension and fatigue are stored. Using special lotion for massaging, combining natural ingredients of peppermint and sweet orange, you can de-stress and rejuvenate yourself in a Zen-like sanctuary.
Not just by hands, professional practitioners sometimes use additional tools to achieve the maximum result. At AYANA Resort and Spa, their Lava Stone Reflexology combines techniques from China, Thailand and Europe. Starting with fresh lime and a salt foot bath ceremony, the leg massage and therapeutic foot reflexology will continue using heated basalt rocks (Lava Stone) to stimulate reflex points found in the feet.
Not only because they retain heat well, the ancients believe that these lava rocks have nurturing, cleansing and healing effects on the body. The heat radiating from the stones is expected to relax the muscles in the feet and, at the same time, allowing the therapist to work deeper into the reflex areas. This deeply relaxing treatment is recommended for those having tension in connective tissues and those with anxiety issues.
Atmosphere is also a factor when deciding on your foot treatment because, at the end of the day, what you need is peace of mind to relieve stress. You can choose to indulge in the soothing beachfront ambience at Summer Garden of Heavenly Spa by Westin and let the nurturing hands of their therapist relax the muscles in your feet. Alternatively, you can opt for a river view treatment at Spa at Maya which overhangs the energetic waters of the Petanu River. The lush river valley filled with calming sounds and cool mountain breezes, becomes a sensory supplement to your treatment.
Foot reflexology may not have a full set of scientific proof, though, since the benefits are not purely just physical, the question lies in how the individual feels overall at the end of the session – revived, physically and emotionally.
CHILL Reflexology
Impiana Private Villas Seminyak
Address: Jalan Kunti 118x, Seminyak
Phone: +62 361 730840
Site: www.chillreflexology.com
AYANA Resort and Spa
Address: Karang Mas Estate, Jalan Karang Mas Sejahtera, Jimbaran
Phone: +62 361 702222
Site: www.ayana.com
Heavenly Spa by Westin
The Westin Resort Nusa Dua
Address: ITDC Complex Lot N-3, Nusa Dua
Phone: +62 361 771906 or +62 361 8498888
Site: www.heavenlyspabali.com
Spa at Maya
Maya Ubud Resort & Spa
Address: Jalan Gunung Sari Peliatan, Ubud
Phone: +62 361 977888
Site: www.spaatmaya.com
