April 1, 2013

Holistic Living on the Go - by Stephanie Maxine Ross, MS, MH, HT, CNC
Director of the Complementary and Integrative Therapy Program, Health Sciences Department

After a long tiring day, discover deep relaxation and scintillating comfort by experiencing an “Aroma Therapy Pebble Foot Massage." Simply cover the bottom of a large ceramic dish or wooden bowl with a layer of round pebbles, such as small Colorado stones or marbles. Pour a steady stream of hot, salty water over the layer of stones, then add 2-3 drops of your favorite essential oil, such as lavender, rose, geranium, or peppermint, into the pebble water bath. Place your feet into the aromatic water and roll them gently over the pebbles, administering gentle pressure to the soles of your feet. The pebbles act to stimulate acupressure points on the bottom of your feet, the salty water helps to remove toxins and the essential oil will serve to evoke relaxation.

Source: The Course in “Holistic Self Care”; Week 8 Stress-reduction homework