Foot Treatments

Feet First

Incorporating foot rituals to massage and other body treatments can provide true holistic healing and profound benefits. The ancient art of reflexology, which traces back to Ayurveda and Oriental Medicine, focuses on a system using specific points from the feet, hands, ears, and face to other parts of the body that relate to vital organ functions. Massage and pressure point work can release blockages and move energy through meridians and to nerve endings that relate to vital organs such as the lungs, large intestine, and kidneys.

For example, working just under the ball of the foot can also open the diaphragm reflex to ease the breath and release tension, held emotions in the body, and oxygenate the tissues. Similarly, working along the arch of the foot (which reflects the spine) can relieve tightness and soreness in the back and neck. When foot treatments are combined with essential oils or herbs, such as soaks or liniments, the active healing agents are absorbed through the feet for therapeutic benefits.

Foot massage can help ground the body’s electro-magnetic system, promoting energy balance and supporting homeostasis. By focusing on the feet, we can affect the alignment of the body, which plays a key role in posture, gait, and mobility.

By Tara Grodjesk
President, Tara Spa Therapy; VP Earthlite Wellness Products
www.taraspatherapy.com

Postural health: Care and prevention for spa therapists

For spa therapists, foot care is essential for work; the feet support the body through long days and many services. Keeping them healthy is key to maintaining good posture, energy, and balance. Therapists often underestimate the importance of feet, but even minor discomfort, whether in the heel, toe, arch, or a blister caused by ill-fitting shoes, can affect posture and strain the joints.

The foot is the foundation of the body’s structure. Composed of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments, it plays a vital role in proper support and healthy walking mechanics. Therefore, it is crucial to consult with professionals to perform a baropodometry study to understand gait and care for the therapist’s posture.

Having balanced feet is essential for physical well-being:
• The foot provides stability and keeps the body structure upright, with efficiency and balance.
• The three arches must have good height to support proper alignment.
• Choosing the right footwear is vital to prevent injuries and joint pain.
• Connecting with the soles of our feet fosters an energetic relationship with the earth.
• The rigidity and flexibility of the foot are crucial for locomotion and adapting to all types of terrain.

Therapists should utilize arch supports to reduce fatigue and strain, and incorporate stretching exercises at the end of the day to improve posture.

In addition to personal foot care for therapists, offering specialized foot treatments can promote good posture and overall well-being. Recommended options include:
• Massages like reflexology, Thai foot massage, and acupuncture.
• Therapeutic pedicures.
• Contrast therapy, hot and cold water.
• Pediluviums or walks on uneven terrain (sand, grass, earth) for foot adaptation and stimulation.
• Exfoliations and masks using clays or mud.