Let's Give a Hand for Our Feet!

When’s the last time you treated your feet?  It’ time to let the toes out from “hibernation” – wiggle them out of boots and shoes and take a good look at them!  We tend to take our feet for granted – yet this part of our body is key to getting us from point A to point B.  Walking, riding a bike or pushing the accelerator.  Even if you prefer your transportation by horse, you communicate some directions with your feet.

Because of its dynamic role in support and mobility, in Pilates we specifically focus on foot function.  We work to correct imbalances in the foot, ankle, lower leg, knee and so on up the chain.  The foot has an integral relationship to the rest of the body.

As a movement person, I’m all in favor of other mind/body activities such tai chi, Nia and yoga.  But when it comes to our feet – it sure is nice to have that one-on-one attention with de-stressing.  Reflexology is a type of bodywork that addresses the humble hardworking foot.  I consulted with friend and Certified Reflexologist Joy Klein to share some common questions and answers about this modality.

What is reflexology?

Reflexology originated about 3,000 years ago in China.  It is not what you think of as a foot rub, but a precise practice of touching various points, called “reflexes” on the hands and feet that represent the organs, glands and muscles on the body.

Why do people get reflexology?

Some people think that reflexology is only helpful for foot and hand issues.  It is so much more!!  Some reasons why people seek it out is for relief and assistance with:

• Stress and stress-related conditions

• Tension headaches

This sounds too good to be true.  How is this possible?

When I see clients, I can actually find issues they either were not aware of or they did not disclose to me.   When I ask the client about this issue I found (e.g. right hip injury, thyroid issue, sore back, liver problems, etc.), the client almost always is awed that I “figured out” their issue on the feet.  The feet tell me a story of where the body is out of balance.

Once I find these areas, I can address the body’s symptoms during a session to regulate or rebalance them.

I am ticklish so I am hesitant to try reflexology.

If you hire a Certified Reflexologist, their techniques should not tickle your feet.  Clients are very surprised how good it feels and how relaxing it is.

How should I feel after a session?

Most clients say they feel more relaxed than they have in a long time and sleep deeply that night.  Also, they are often surprised how much better their pain and stress and acute & chronic issues are right after a session.  Most new clients go through a detoxification.  My philosophy is that every client will achieve 2 of the following 3 things at least:  the Sigh, Snore or Smile.

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Ready to try refloxology out for yourself? Join us at the studio on Wednesday, May 15th, when Joy will be leading a Couples Reflexology Workshop! (Duos and Singles, welcome) - Visit our website for further details & registration!