The Iron Massage
Dr. Sham Choy and I have been residing with a host family that has provided us nothing but enjoyment. The meals that had been provided are filled with color and more importantly LOVE. Mixing in the ingredient of love is the foundation of our meals.
Our host mother Dona Luz has a wealth of knowledge in the Mexican political, social and spiritual arenas. She does not consider herself a curandera however practices some traditions which include herbal medication and healing practices.
Tonight at dinner, Claire and I were asked if we would like to experience a form of massage that Dona Luz had learned at the local University. She had Claire lay down on her bed and with a covered towel over her body; Dona Luz began to massage her with a hot iron (plancha). Claire was a bit anxious at first however the heat the iron delivered made for a relaxing massage. Prior to touching Claire’s body Dona Luz said a prayer asking God to guide her in this process and to give her the strength that is needed for Claire to achieve maximum satisfaction. The movement was top down only. Dona Luz mentioned when we receive physical therapy at a doctor’s office heat is administered through the body as part of the therapeutic process. Since we do not have the same tools and our hands cannot deliver the same level of heat, the iron is the next best thing.
Claire receiving plancha massage
While completing Claire’s massage Dona Luz then gave me a reflective foot massage as she described it. The foot is used as a tool for assessing problems that one may have with a major internal organ including kidneys, lungs, liver, heart as well as sexual organs. She trained me in identifying what to feel for with my two thumbs. She did not remember which parts of the foot pertained to which organ however later furnished me with some literature. After I received my foot massage I practiced the technique on Claire. She reported that I should print some business cards and open up my own practice. It was not the first time that thought had crossed my mind.
Claire and I initially thought we were going to have a quiet night but instead it turned out to be a satisfying and fascinating experience. The love of Mexico! You learn something new everyday!! Looking forward to the next adventure!
SAUL SALINAS, MSW, PPSC
072407
3 responses so far ↓
juanxipe // July 25, 2008 at 4:45 pm |
“What an experience; who would have thought. A massage with an iron. Thats what makes life exciting.” direct quote from Claire
Anita, Grammy Katie, y Joise // July 26, 2008 at 8:57 pm |
whoa, so interesting.in the USA to have a hot iron placed on your back seems of torture, yet in mexico, there is a deeper sense of meaning, in mexico, its a sense of healing.
Adriana // February 6, 2009 at 7:48 pm |
Please can you furnish me with the info on Doña Luz to request an appointment?