Reflexology Promotes Healing, Relaxation
Years ago, I remember reading in an interview with actress Elizabeth Hurley that she relied on weekly reflexology massages to relax and take years off her face. Intrigued by Hurley’s endorsement (and her stunningly well-preserved youthful beauty), I decided to give reflexology a try a few years back when I was visiting China. I loved the results so much that I enjoyed a treatment every day of my vacation, and have been searching for a place here in the DMV that offers an authentic Chinese reflexology experience.
Reflexology promotes deep relaxation and improves circulation throughout the entire body.(Photo: Getty Images)
In the past several years, quite a few area massage therapists have been offering reflexology massage; one massage spa that specializes in Chinese reflexology is Comfy Feet Spa, 1629 Connecticut Ave. NW, which opened in Dupont Circle a little over two years ago. I finally went for a reflexology foot massage there, and was quite pleased with the treatment. I don’t know that it took “years off my face,” but I certainly felt more relaxed and enjoyed a fantastic night’s sleep that evening.
Originating in China, reflexology is the ancient art of foot massage based on the manipulation of acupressure points. According to the principles of reflexology, energy runs through the body in channels known as meridians. Massage of the feet (and hands or ears) stimulates these energy channels to promote healing and relaxation. The feet contain a microcosm of the entire body; every part of the foot corresponds to an area of the body, and applying pressure to these points, or reflexes, stimulates the corresponding part of the body.
In reflexology, the feet are a microcosm of the entire body. (Graphic: Pure and Simple Living)
The reflexology massage I received in China was preceded by a soak in a detoxifying foot bath, and I was pleased to have the same treatment at Comfy Feet. Containing a therapeutic infusion Chinese herbs, the foot bath initiates the deep detoxification and relaxation process. The massage treatment consisted of a combination of deep pressure applied to various meridians and lighter massage on the soles of the feet. The therapist also gently manipulated the pressure points along my ankles and calves, which provided instant comfort to my sore muscles and aching ankles.
In addition to reflexology, Comfy Feet offers full-body massage treatment options: acupressure, hot stone massage and standard massage with body oil. I was offered an add-on for a back and neck massage. I declined this time, but I think I’ll try it on my next visit. The spa also offers discount packages perfect for a last-minute holiday gift, or treat to oneself for holiday season stress relief. A 50-minute foot reflexology massage is $69.
A native Washingtonian, Beauty Blogger Lia Phipps is an interior designer with an irrepressible, life-long fascination with health and beauty. When she is not selecting fabrics and paint colors for clients, she occupies herself with trying new products and dispensing beauty advice to friends, acquaintances and anyone who is willing to listen to “Tips from Phipps”.
