Feet First

If only it were true.  If we really did put our feet first when it comes to personal care, the difference in our wellbeing would be remarkable. For those of us blessed with good walking equipment it just takes a stubbed toe, a blister, heel spurs or a sprained ankle to remind us how much we take that equipment for granted.

Feet were not designed for confining shoes or hard walking surfaces. But this is what they experience.  And feet send a message to the rest of the body when they are uncomfortable.

For Professionals Only.  For serious foot problems, only professional help will make an effective difference.  If you're going to go after your corns with a razor, you might as well be your own lawyer, too!

Podiatrists and Orthopedic Surgeons are the medical specialists in foot disorders.  Pedorthic practitioners assist in fitting the orthotic appliances which help to balance your foot-fall.  Chiropodists look after those nasty corns and other foot troubles.  Pedicurists do more that just buff your toe nails.  Regular pedicures can keep feet healthy enough to stave off serious skin problems.

Reflexology. Currently rising in popularity is the practice of Reflexology.  This type of pressure therapy works on specific points on the foot that correspond reflexively to all the organs and major parts of the body.  Its purpose is to improve circulation and relieve stress and tension.

For anyone with major health concerns the only criteria is that appropriate pressure is used. A 20-year-old wait staffer would get a very different session from a 72-year-old diabetic.  But both would benefit from Reflexology.

A qualified Reflexologist will first gently loosen the tight muscles of the foot.  Working in a specific pattern, gentle thumb and finger pressure is applied to corresponding foot reflex points to improve nerve circulation.  Sometimes the point on the foot will feel some tenderness.  Sometimes it will be the actual point in the body that feels the effect of the contact.  It is important to let the Reflexologist know your comfort limitation.

A Reflexology session may start with a foot soak or just a cleansing spray.  Ideally it ends with a peppermint lotion massage that leaves your feet feeling "too good to walk on".

Self-Care.  Take a lesson from the professionals.  A warm, relaxing foot soak softens callused skin.  A natural product foot scrub gently exfoliates dead skin and encourages the movement of healthy new cells to the skin's surface.  Foot powder combats the unhealthy effects of confining footwear.

Before applying lotion to your feet, take a few minutes for some hands-on Reflexology.  Concentrate on working the individual toes and the ball of the foot to ease the head, neck and shoulders. This can be surprisingly effective on sinus congestion. For lower back strain, massage the heel and upwards along the Achilles Tendon.  Then finish off with the peppermint foot cream.

Whether you have actually been on your feet all day (either at work or at play) or spent several hours sitting down, your entire body will benefit.  Because of the connection between your feet and the rest of your body, all systems benefit from the care your hands give your feet.

Gertrude King is an Aromatherapist and Reflexologist in private practice in south western Ontario.