Hey Darlings! I’m back with another Hidden Gem, Lehua Spa. I’m super excited about this one because all of the ones that I have featured have all been amazing restaurants all over the world but today I’m sharing a Self-Care Hidden Gem. I can’t take credit for this find. My big sister Jan of JanPlans turned me on to this spot. The past few months have been crazy and this was a much needed break away from reality. LITERALLY! Today I finally had an opportunity to simple enjoy myself. I have had countless massages in the past but never an actual foot massage referred to Foot Reflexology.
As I progress further with my Yoga Teacher Training I am learning how important that it is that I always set my space. It’s imperative that I not allow anyone to transfer their negative energy on to me or in my space so from the moment that I walked into Lehua Spa I could instantly feel that the space was clear, energetic and set properly to welcome everyone that entered through the doors. The ambiance in the waiting room simply built up the excitement of what awaited behind their huge tall dark brown doors.
We were led through the huge tall dark brown doors and guided to our seat. Since this was my very first time I entered this experience with a clear mind and heart. I immediately set my intentions to allow the Universe and every element in it centered around me. My intention was set to simple be a living creature in this world having an experience. We were all instructed to take a seat, remove our shoes, place our feet in what appeared to be unique wooden mini barrels and relax. I did as I was instructed. I turned off my cell phone and basked in the experience and ambiance of peace. Simply Being (Yoga Phrase). Did I mention that the three of us had men do our foot massage? Needless to say that Jan, Michelle and I leaned back in our seats as we were instructed and enjoyed the mini head massage as our feet soaked and shortly there after our Foot Reflexology began.
WHAT IS FOOT REFLEXOLOGY?
Reflexology is a type of massage that involves applying different amounts of pressure to the feet, hands and ears. It’s based on a theory that these body parts are connected to certain organs and body systems. People who practice this technique are called reflexologists.
HOW DOES REFLEXOLOGY WORK?
In traditional Chinese medicine Reflexology rests on the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”), or “vital energy.” According to this belief, qi flows through each person. When a person feels stressed, their body blocks qi. In many people this causes an imbalance in the body that can lead to illness. Reflexology works to keep qi flowing through the body, keeping it balanced and disease free.
In Chinese medicine, different body parts correspond with different pressure points on the body. Reflexologists use maps of these points in the feet, hands, and ears to determine where they should apply pressure. It is said that their touch sends energy flowing through a your body until it reaches the area that is in need of healing.
This is very similar to Qi Gong Yoga. Qigong (pronounced chee-gong) is an ancient Chinese exercise and healing technique that involves meditation, controlled breathing and movement exercises. During my session I utilized controlling my breathe just as I have been learning during my Yoga Teacher Training. I’m learning that once you align yourself and set your intentions that God and the Universe will place you in places and around people that you never expected.
BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY MASSAGE
Foot Reflexology massage can be a deeply relaxing and therapeutic modality for those suffering from plantar fasciitis, ankle injuries or even everyday work and play. The massage therapist at Lehua Spa applies traditional Swedish and sports massage techniques to the foot, calf and lower leg. This will not only help relieve toe pain, ankle pain, plantar fasciitis and common forms of arthritis, but can also decrease stress and anxiety in the entire body. In addition, a variety of stretches can be beneficial. Keep in mind that with pain and sensitivity in the foot, heel and calf areas, it’s imperative to communicate your pain levels with your massage therapist during your treatment.
MY EXPERIENCE
We each had a 60 minutes signature foot reflexology service that started with a mini head massages targeted to relax your body while your feet soak before your massage. I’ll be the first to say that my head massage had me so relaxed I forgot that I was laying back in a chair. My therapist was very nurturing and constantly checked on me. As I began to settle down I felt as if I was experiences a form of Yoga Nidra. Yoga nidra or yogic sleep is a state of consciousness between waking and sleeping, like the “going-to-sleep” stage, typically induced by a guided meditation. There is evidence that yoga nidra helps relieve stress. This is the best way that I can explain my experience along with THE BEST foot massages! I don’t think that another can compare to today’s experience. Needless to say that this will be a monthly regimen. I have already locked in my date for next month. I’m so thankful to Jan for introducing us to this Hidden Gem. Stay tuned for my next feature.
