What is the Foot Chi - Cobblestone Walkway: The Foot Chi - Cobblestone Walk, also known as a foot reflexology mat is a lightweight, portable tool used to apply acupressure from the body's own weight, to the reflex points of the foot. The Cobblestone walk is designed to emulate ancient stone reflexology pathways found throughout Asia.

The Origin and History of Reflexology: The use of Reflexology dates back 5,000 years. Substantial information suggests that its origins lie in China, India and Egypt. Today, throughout China, many parks and cities incorporate Reflexology footpaths into their recreational facilities. Cobblestone walking is used in conjunction with Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and Kung Fu as a tool to strengthen and heal the body from within.

What is Foot Reflexology: Foot Reflexology is a non-invasive natural healing art form, which is gaining widespread popularity. Foot Reflexology is an applied pressure therapy that involves stimulating reflex points on the foot. The foot acts as a map of the entire body, where the reflex points correspond to vital organs, muscles and glands. Over time, gravity causes a substance called uric acid to settle in reflex points of the foot. Uric acid, when concentrated, produces a cord, or granule like bubble that may be painful upon stimulation. This may be a sign that pure and healthy blood flow is unable to circulate to the rest of the body.

In many Asian medical systems, this is known as a 'stagnation' of 'energy' or 'chi'. Without the proper flow of energy, the mind and body connection is affected, leading to an ill state of health. By stimulating the reflex points and nerve endings of the foot, the uric acid can be broken down, and the stagnant energy released. This process helps to increase blood circulation and metabolism, thereby reducing the stress and workload upon the heart. It has also been known to help regulate hormone imbalances via nerve/brain pathways, thus creating a sense of calm, energy, clarity and vitality.

Benefits of Foot Reflexology:

• Offers a deep sense of relaxation.
• Can Improve Circulation.
• Naturally helps cleanse the body of toxins and impurities.
• Is thought to help regulate hormone imbalances.
• Is reported to control the perception of pain by stimulating the release of endorphins.
• Has been known to help with insomnia, sinusitis, allergies, fatigue, stress, anxiety, digestion, and much more!

Research: In a recent study conducted by the

Oregon Research Institute (ORI), Cobblestone Footpath exercise has demonstrated an improvement in physical function and reduction in blood pressure to a greater extent than conventional walking in older adults. Bastyr University in Washington has built a new Cobblestone Footpath studded with jutting and smooth river stones, to study the benefits of Cobblestone exercise. Studies report that stress related symptoms and illness contribute to nearly 60-70% of the visits to primary care physicians. Reflexology can be beneficial in stress reduction as well as pain management, by accelerating the bodies own natural healing ability.

**The above statements have not been approved or evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are therefore not intended to diagnose, treat or cure disease. Consult your health care practitioner before using. If you experience pain or discomfort, discontinue use and consult your healthcare provider. Not suitable for use among young children, pregnant women, or those who have undergone recent surgical procedures.