A - Z Guide

What is Chinese Foot Massage?

The Theory
The Chinese foot massage holds strong similarities to reflexology with each spot on the sole of the foot correlating to an organ within the body. Chinese medicine teaches that energy channels, ‘Qui’ or more commonly ‘Chi,’ stream through the body; when these become interrupted or blocked, certain organs and their functional systems can be affected. Chinese foot massage aims to stimulate the stream of Chi and enable it to flow upwards from the feet to the rest of the body, each part of the foot connecting to a different part of the body. By massaging a section of the foot, the corresponding body area receives specific therapeutic treatment, adjusting bodily functions and improving blood circulation and metabolism.

The History of Foot Massage
Foot massage has been renowned for its curative properties in various cultures. Archaeologists have found cave drawings in Egypt depicting the connection between points on the foot and internal organs. Often referred to as ‘alternative medicine’ in the West, treatments such as Chinese foot massage and reflexology are becoming accepted by the traditional medical community as legitimate forms of therapy.

The Process
To begin the treatment, the feet are soaked in a warm herbal bath for between 10 and 20 minutes. The masseur will then apply lotion or oil to the feet and lower legs and begin the massage. The whole experience is intended to be extremely relaxing and will usually last about an hour.

Benefits
Chinese foot massage has been said to help a number of ailments, including:

Improved circulation in legs and hands
Stimulating lymphatic drainage
Toxin removal
Boosting the immune system
Reducing stiffness and improving flexibility
Improving sleep
Stimulation of the mind
Pain reduction
Improved results of medication
Lower Cholesterol levels
Improved signs and symptoms of heart disease
Stress hormone and stress reduction
Less anxiety and panic attacks
Regulated bowel/gastrointestinal motility
Healing gynecological disorders
Headache relief
Elimination of asthma and respiratory disorders
Improved skin condition
Elimination and improvement of symptoms of Scoliosis, Kyphosis and Lordosis

There are at present no known side effects or contraindications.

Information taken from
The S.E.E.D. Institute http://www.theseedinstitute.co.uk/default.htm
Time4Yourself http://www.time4yourself.co.uk/4.html