What is it?
A 75-minute foot, neck and shoulder treatment at Happy Foot in Central. Reflexology is based on manipulating the meridians (energy centres) of the feet to positively influence related organs within the body. For example, the big toe or heel can relate directly to specific internal areas of the body. But it's also an easy-to-find, relaxing treatment for weary soles.
What was it like?
These kind of centres are all over Hong Kong and are often underrated in terms of the relaxation element and cost. Reflexologists say you should have it done regularly to reap the benefits, but even as an occasional pursuit, it's a real stress-reliever. I made an appointment for 1.30pm, but there's probably no need to book mid-week at this time. There are two rows of five comfortable leather armchairs and large cushions to rest your head and neck on. The therapist washes your feet in a bowl of warm water, dries them with a towel and places them on a soft leather footstool. She rubs in moisturiser to one foot and gets to work, kneading every area from the ankles to the toes, from the top of the feet and the soles. Some reflexologists will really press hard - to the point where you're wincing. This was less hard-core, but still enough to feel the release. After doing both feet separately, she works on the calves and knees using moisturiser as well. She finishes off with hot towels on the feet and lower legs, with a few painless but strangely enjoyable whacks of her palms onto the area. Sitting straight on the footstool, she then starts a very effective neck, head, shoulder and lower back massage (over your clothes). I've had a lot of massages in the past year, and despite the lack of oils, candles and music, this was in a league of its own. The therapist really knows how to target tension points and her scalp rub is second to none. It's a great way to wind down without breaking the bank.
Was anything not so good?
Luxury spa lovers won't be too keen on the pillows that every person leans their head on immediately after another customer has finished their treatment. There's nothing fancy about the decor and the background music was a CD of easy-listening tunes from my childhood. But, of course, this is reflected in the good prices.