How to counter the effects of a low-touch and high-tech society through the practices of the ancient techniques.

THE NATURAL CONNECTION

My ancestors had the benefit of existing in natural spa surroundings. Many lived near beaches, rivers or springs that provided natural exfoliation resources of sand, silt and clay. Exfoliation helps soften skin by removing dirt and old skin cells. Natural water sources offered the additional benefit of providing minerals to our largest organ. The gentle lapping and caress of tides provided a natural massage to weary bodies and spirits that helped them remain grounded and balanced.


THE HUMAN CONNECTION

The power of the human touch and physical interaction involving hands-on treatment can combat the negative effects of an increasingly cyber driven and high tech environment. The techniques used by ancient Egyptians and more recently the art of reflexology has been shown to improve circulation. A lot of reflexology associates insist that it is not the same as massage therapy yet it offers some of the the same benefits.

I can attest to the positive effects of slipping away to get a quick manicure or hand massage on stress filled days at work. I am always amazed at the knots and kinks that have formed in my hands as the manicurist kneads them away. It leaves me feeling re-energized and often relaxes my entire body and overwhelmed mind. An added benefit is the sensitivity of human contact that has been scientifically and spiritually proven to help humans and animals maintain healthy lives. It is also an exchange of energy between two forces -- you and your therapist -- which is why it is especially important that your manicurist, massage therapist or reflexologist is a pleasant person with positive energy and a relaxed demeanor.


CULTURAL CONNECTIONS

I have been seeing increasing numbers of men who have discovered the benefit of a weekly manicure. It is probably more beneficial for men to interact physically in a nonsexual and nonaggressive manner by taking time to pamper themselves. This is an act that is not encouraged in American culture. Indigeonous cultures, like some African societies, have no qualms about two men walking hand in hand. Hugs are commonplace and freely exchanged. Even many European cultures have no problem with men kissing each other.

As we have become more high technology our society has become increasingly low touch due to fears of sexual harrassment charges and other concerns. A hand shake or a hand on the bony part of the shoulder are the only acceptable forms of human contact. Hugs and kisses are reserved for our closest friends and relatives. Yet some churches have recognized that people need to reconnect physically and spiritually. They require that worshippers hold hands while praying or hug their church neighbors. This is a weekly reconnection of spirits and an opportunity to exchange energy that communicating via electronic resources like telephones, pagers and computers cannot replace.


RELIGIOUS CONNECTIONS

Most people have heard the story of Mary taking her alabaster box filled with precious perfurmed oils to wash the feet of Jesus from John 12 in the Holy Bible. This was not an unusual practice in ancient cultures. People traveled long distances on dusty roads in those days. As a sign of welcome and respect their feet were often washed before they entered the homes of others. It was a sign of honor and humility for a person to wash another's feet. Some churches have continued this tradition. For large numbers of lonely people who seek solace in churches it is the only human contact they have. People who live in large cities like New York and Los Angeles can find themselves especially isolated despite living amongst millions.


STRESS REDUCTION AND RECONNECTION

What are temporary solutions for a person without the luxury of going to a nail salon or massage therapist? Treat yourself to an impromptu hand massage. Keep a bottle of your favorite scented lotion in your desk or hand bag so that you can reconnect with your spirit when you have a quiet moment. Lavendar, rose, jasmine and mint are favorite scents that help relax the mind. Take a drop of lotion and instead of slathering it on, take time to gently massage it into your hands paying particular attention to the heel which is the meaty part closest to your wrist. Massage in a circular motion until you have worked out all of the stressful knots. After you have relieved the tightness in you hand, take each finger and slowly slide your opposite hand upward to the tips. Once your hand is completely relaxed move up your wrist and your forearm squeezing and caressing your worries away.

Even the power of your own touch can be therapeutic as it helps increase your blood's circulation while the scented lotion's aromatherapy properties help ease your mind. A relaxing CD and a cup of herbal tea are optional but highly recommended. By the time you have finished with your self massage you should feel like a brand new person.