CHINESE FOOT MASSAGE
Practitioner
Jan Howarth
Brief explanation of the therapy
Chinese foot massage is closely connected in many ways to Reflexology - in fact it is also
known as Chinese Reflexology - but the techniques are different to those in traditional western reflexology.
It uses aspects of the Chinese point system in Chinese Medicine and the therapy goes back many thousands of years. The Chinese believe that our feet hold all the vital nerve points of the entire body, and so taking care of the feet ensures better health, improved posture and more comfortable walking.
The feet are located in the lowest part of the human body, far away from the heart, and
are prone to slow lymph and blood circulation - they are often neglected! There are
many points on the sole of the foot, and each of these correspond to different parts of
the body. By using a special form of massage, pressure and gentle stretching on the whole
foot - including ankles and calves - blockages can be released and the free flow of energy can be restored to the body. Chinese Foot Massage can be used gently or more strongly
depending on need. Afterwards the recipient feels refreshed, relaxed and also revitalised.
What to expect at the appointment
The first treatment will begin with a consultation to talk informally about past and present
health and any emotional issues that may be significant for the treatment (all of which
is confidential). The first session is 1 1/4 hours, and follow-up treatments are 1 hour in
length.
What will happen in a session
You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and put your feet in a warm
footbath containing herbs chosen specifically for each individual. The heated mixture
warms the feet. After the feet have been rested and refreshed, you will then lie
on a comfortable couch, covered in a warm blanket, and remaining fully clothed apart
from the feet and lower legs. The practitioner will then, after applying lotion or oil, use pressure to massage and knead every point on the feet and up the ankles and calves. Any areas of tenderness or tension will have a bit more attention, and through manipulation of these areas, vital functions can be stimulated, toxins eliminated, blood circulation improved and nerves soothed. It can also be applied to the hands as well as the knees if this is helpful.
How many sessions will the client need before they see a result
The number of sessions can vary depending on each persons' needs. One treatment
can be extremely relaxing, and revitalising - helping with stress. However a course of 3 - 4
treatments could be beneficial for more specific conditions, and many people like to
come back for regular treatments every 1 - 2 months after the initial course.
Who would benefit from this type of therapy
Chinese Foot Massage is suitable and safe for people of all ages, and can be tailored for
most people and conditions. It may bring relief from a wide range of acute and
chronic conditions, although it cannot claim to 'cure' or diagnose. It is advisable that
the massage should be avoided during the first three months of pregnancy.