LIFESTYLE

Foot Fetish: Pamper yourself
Pinaki Roy

Experiencing a foot massage at the end of a long hard day could be both relaxing and pleasant. And I found it so one fine evening at Foot Fetish, an exclusive reflexology/foot massage centre in the heart of Thamel.

When there is pressure applied to the different reflex points in the feet, a different sensation is felt in each one of the points. The pressure applied to the foot can be of slight discomfort at times during a massage session that lasts about an hour but there is no serious cause for concern. There is a tingling sensation that one feels while being worked on which is because of the energy that is flowing through the body. At Foot Fetish, Thai technique is used by applying gentle/mild pressure using varieties of aromatic herbal oils, which helps in relaxing.

Aryan Rai, a local visitor found the whole experience ‘very relaxing and new of its kind’. A single session will leave your feet pampered but regular visitors say that it is good to follow a series of sessions to benefit more. Foot Fetish extends its services to a wide range of clientele that includes tourists, expatriates, housewives and office executives. Lisa Mukhia of Foot Fetish says that the centre also has a ‘service on call’ facility keeping in mind the convenience of its clientele. It offers customised services as per the needs of its clients as different people have different problems, for example, those who have swollen and painful feet are treated with special kind of oils.

Since the entire area on the sole is directly related to all the body organs, the masseur presses these spots on the sole to stimulate the organ which improves its functioning. A tourist from Seattle, Washington in the United States, S de Marquez says, “It [the foot massage] took all the pain away from my tired feet. I came in tired but leaving energised and pain free.” Marquez promises to be back again and recommends the massage to others.

The masseur tells you with a smile, to ‘just relax’ and the reassurance makes the experience all the more pleasant. Though the standard session lasts for an hour or so, it is often shortened to suit the needs of the children and the elderly. During a session, the reflex points in both feet are worked on and extra attention is given to reflex points of greater importance. Suitable ambience is created by playing soothing music throughout a session while you are being attended to.

Reflexology

Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure at various points in the feet to stimulate the body’s own healing energy. It is also believed to improve the circulation and metabolic balance while reducing stress and eliminating toxins. It is profoundly soothing and deeply relaxing for anyone suffering stress-related condition or for those who simply want to unwind after a stressful day.

For an exciting session at Foot Fetish, Tel.: 4701291, 4424751 Email: lmukhia@yahoo.com. Open during 10 am – 10 pm sevn days/week. An hour-long session costs Rs 400.