Reflexology

reflexology
Image from Bao Foot Spa

Reflexology is an ancient form of non-invasive natural therapies. It dates back to as early as 2330BC in countries such as China, India and Egypt. This complementary therapy sees pressure applied to the feet (or hands) to promote wellbeing and optimal health.

The feet are often regarded as a mirror of the body and in the case of Reflexology, pressure is applied to specific points on the foot (reflexes), which correspond with different areas, organs and systems of the body.

Reflexology focuses on ‘zones’ which follow energy from the feet to the brain. If the energy flow in any of these zones becomes blocked or out of balance, it is thought to affect any part of the body contained within that zone. Reflexology works by applying a controlled amount of pressure to the zones via the tips of the practitioner’s fingers and thumbs. The pressure is not painful and can help to remove the energy block in any of the zones. This allows the body to release stress, begin to heal itself and regain balance.

Overall, Reflexology can be a wonderful way to find mental and physical relaxation, as well as a deep sense of calm. If you’re interested to try Reflexology or have had it before and want to continue on your healing journey, book in for a treatment here .

The Medical Pedicure

medical-pedicure

Dubbed the next big thing in wellness, the medical pedicure has already been embraced by trendsetters in Europe and the US. Why? Because people realise that the average pedicure no longer cuts it (no pun intended)!

Many people pay little attention to their feet, however, when you think about it, they are our foundation. Looking after your feet is the next level of self-care. People now want a high grade, medical service provided by trusted professionals. These professionals are podiatrists. Podiatrists have the knowledge, training and skills to give you the best care helping you get the most out of your feet day in, day out. Additionally, we can deliver a service that is healthy, hygienic and safe.

The medical grade pedicure involves cutting your toenails correctly to prevent ingrown nails, and removing the hard, dry skin that builds up under the feet. All of this is done using sterile instruments, meaning you are not at risk of infection – unfortunately something that can occur at nail salons where they use the same equipment from one person to the next. We do not apply polish to the nails, however we will leave your feet looking and feeling so great you may even want to go polish free!

With sandal season upon us now, it’s a great time to make your feet a priority!

What is Grounding and Why Do It?

foot-podiatrist-camberwell-podiatry

You may already know of the term “grounding”. Or, it may be something you instinctively do without knowing it has a scientific name. For those left wondering, grounding is direct contact between your skin and the earth’s surface. For example, walking or standing barefoot on grass, sand, dirt etc. It can also be referred to as “earthing”.

For some, the mere thought of going barefoot outside may bring up a lot of emotions; the hassle of getting dirty feet, the fear of societal judgement, the chance it may increase already existing foot pain, the possibility of stepping on something sharp…which for people with peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) can cause significant problems.

These are all valid reasons, which typically originate from our upbringing, social conditioning, or via advice from medical professionals. However, whether you choose to engage in the practice of grounding or not, there’s a lot of interesting research that is starting to emerge about it’s benefits.

These benefits include:

  • Reduced inflammation
  • Improved immune function
  • Faster recovery time following exercise
  • Improved wound healing
  • Improved sleep
  • Improved cardiovascular health
  • Improved regulation of the endocrine system
  • Shift from sympathetic nervous system activation (flight, fight, freeze) to parasympathetic nervous system activation (cue rest and digest)

The research suggests that spending as little as 30 minutes a day with your bare feet connected to the earth could help improve your health and wellbeing. Obviously, we encourage you to use your discretion as to whether your environment is safe to stand or walk barefoot. So, if your curiosity is piqued, why not give the practice of grounding a go? Think of it as your time to “recharge” and the earth, your battery!