Treat Your Feet

Every time I go to the shopping center in Scotts Valley, I can’t help but notice the little massage place that offers one-hour reflexology foot massages for $24! Being an avid runner, I’m known for spending upwards of $80 for a deep-tissue sports massage, but for the low price of $24, I was willing to give this place a try.

Last weekend, after my Saturday morning long run, I decided that my beat-up running feet needed all the help they could get and the best thing I could do for them (and my body) was to get a foot massage from the Flying Crane. I was a little skeptical at first, wondering how a place that offered great massages could charge so little. Was I surprised!

As I approached the Flying Crane, a woman was exiting the store. Curious about her experience, I asked her what type of service she had opted for.

“I always do the regular one-hour foot massage,” said Santa Cruz resident Stacey Sanchez. “I drive all the way from SC to get a foot massage here because they are the best! I used to have problems with gallstones, and in my opinion, reflexology has helped me get this issue under control.”

This confirmed it for me—I would get the one-hour foot massage. Now, don’t get me wrong, I was just looking for a good old foot rub, not an internal makeover. If my organs benefited, then so be it.

This was the best foot massage (and only foot massage) I have ever had and it surpassed all of my expectations. Upon arrival, the therapist soaked my feet in warm bath water infused with Chinese medicine (I assume this was to make sure my feet were nice and clean). Then, I sat in a reclining lounge chair where the true enjoyment started. I was so relaxed during the entire massage. I think I must have dozed off a couple times! It was the most pleasant experience and I will definitely go back again. I think I may even drag my husband along for a couples foot massage. I left the Flying Crane feeling both relaxed and rejuvenated.

What exactly is a reflexology foot massage? Besides feeling like a little slice of heaven, reflexology has a deeper purpose. It is a scientific technique of applying pressure on the hands or feet which results in increased health and wellness of all body systems.

It opens the circulatory and electrical channels to the organs and areas of the body where crystallization of waste materials or other blockages have formed. Regular practice of reflexology breaks up this waste material allowing the body to carry away waste materials and receive the nourishment it needs for optimum health and wellness.

A reflexology foot massage can also relieve stress and tension within the body, helping it heal itself. It can help reduce pain, improve range of motion and increase circulation. Regular massage can also improve sports performance and reduce chance of injury.

The Flying Crane offers massages to individuals, couples and families with children. Walk-ins are welcome but appointments are recommended, especially Friday through Sunday.

For more information, please go to Flying Crane.