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In the News - Holistic Therapies Get HOT - Focus On You |
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For this issue's TimeOut section, InsideOut went in search of alternative holistic therapies that promise to do more than just rejuvenate mind, body and soul. Holistic therapies are heating up. Imagine a massage that is up to 10 times more effective than the conventional method, melting away muscle tensions, soothing aching backs and all the while relaxing mind, body and soul. Too good to be true you may say, but a hot stone massage is just that. An ancient therapy originating from the Americas, the treatment combines smooth, hot volcanic basalt stones from Peru with traditional Swedish massage strokes. "One massage stroke using a hot stone is said to be equal to 10 without," says beauty therapist Karen Brown of Focus hair and beauty salon, which offers the therapy.
The heat helps the muscles open up fully, allowing blood to move more freely, boosting circulation. A concept that has recently come into fashiion as people look to alternative holistic therapies, hot stone massage is a deeply therapeutic and blissful treatment that is a must for anyone who enjoys a pampering massage. The treatment starts off by being cocooned in heated towels, cleansing and warming up the body, opening the pores. It is instantly soothing and relaxing. Hot stones are then placed on key points along the spine where they are left to work their magic while the therapist massages other areas to start the relaxation process. The stones are hot, but not burning. They merely radiate warmth that relaxes and calms. Once the stones are removed, the therapist uses smaller, heated stones to massage your entire body, sending you off into a state of bliss. Scented oils complete the dreamy experience which is nothing short of heavenly. Look to your feet
An ancient holistic therapy that has stood the test of time, reflexology involves the manipulation of key areas of the feet, believed to mirror areas of the body. "The feet have 3,000 to 5,000 nerve endings and are very receptive," Karen explains. "Reflexology can help detect ailments and areas of the body which may be out of balance. It works on both an emotional and physical aspect." Therapy junkies will be please to learn that reflexology is not just pure indulgence. That is, if you believe in the "science". It can help in your quest for overall health, aiding circulation, improving lymphatic drainage and relaxing muscles. If a client has a particular concern this can be worked on through specific pressure points on the feet. Other positives include boosted energy as well as all the usual benefits that come with pampering yourself. No one is quite sure where or when the therapy first started although evidence of reflexology is found in art work from ancient Egypt and Asia. Reflexology is most commonly practiced on the feet. For those intolerant to having their feet touched, the treatment is available on the hands and, less commonly, the ears and head. The treatment starts with a soothing massage to relax the feet. The therapist then expertly works her way around every inch, massaging key areas. "Sometimes clients feel a sensation in parts of their body during their treatment," Karen says. She advises them to let her know. It often indicates this area needs special care. After the treatment the therapist is able to give an in-depth analysis on anything found, from dehydration and blockages to stress. The therapist also takes time to read how your toes lie. "You can often tell someone's personality by the natural fall of their toes." Karen explains. Whether you choose to believe is up to you. What you will feel is deeply relaxed, pampered and washed with a sense of well-being. Hot-foot it to your local reflexologist and you will be rewarded with more than just an indulgent experience. It might just help you heal.
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by Joanna Lewis, InsideOut Magazine 
The theory is that heat from the stones penetrates the muscles, deeply relaxing each one and enabling the therapist to more effectively draw out muscle pain and discomfort.
Feet are far more than tools for walking the path of life. They could just be the way to good health. For some, a treatment that focuses just on feet is pure delight. Others are likely to be sent into squeals of laughter. For the well informed, it's an opportunity to learn more about their body and even help heal.