NEWS RELEASE For Immediate Release: 9-19-04 Media Contact: Teri Thomas 425.602.3107
First Public Healing Path In U.S. Comes To Bastyr
Walk your way to better health on new reflexology foot path; a gift to the community from 97 year-old donor
(Kenmore, WA 9-19-04) Bastyr University is now the home of the first public traditional reflexology healing path in the United States. A common sight in parks and open spaces throughout China and Asia, these paths lure all ages to kick off their shoes and walk gingerly across stones to improve health through the soles of their feet. Meanwhile, Washington Governor Gary Locke has proclaimed September 19-25 Reflexology Awareness Week.
Based on ancient Asian wisdom, walking barefoot on a reflexology path massages and stimulates trigger points connected to various meridians of the body. The pressure of stones on the feet combined with gravity provides a therapeutic exercise to stimulate well being and health. Reported benefits of reflexology include improved digestion, stamina and energy plus enhanced immunity. By stimulating over 7,000 nerve endings in each foot, it is believed to positively affect corresponding body systems.
True to its Northwest home, Bastyr’s path is specially constructed from local river rock that is placed in cement according to reflexology guidelines. With the inspiration and guidance of certified reflexology experts, student and volunteer work parties created, installed and landscaped the new path. A special feature is the circular emblem which pays homage to the five Chinese elements: Water, Earth, Wood, Metal and Fire. The path will be used as a practical lab for reflexology coursework in Bastyr University’s natural medicine program, providing the first such educational facility in the United States.
A long-time friend and supporter of Bastyr, Helen Higgen made construction possible with her generous gift dedicated for path construction and landscaping. Thriving at 97, Mrs. Higgen has been an advocate of natural medicine for many decades. She previously owned four health food stores, and still shares her passion and energy to help others find and enjoy health alternatives. She says “I want to help as many people as I can before I leave this world.”
The winding 64’ path is located directly behind the campus in Bastyr’s Medicinal Herb Garden. Free and open to the public, all are invited to experience this distinctive garden feature. First-time users may experience some initial soreness as their feet become accustomed to the rough textures and rock shapes. For further information please call Teri Thomas at (425) 602-3107.
ABOUT BASTYR UNIVERSITY
Bastyr University, located north of Seattle, Washington, is an accredited institution, internationally recognized as a pioneer in natural medicine. Bastyr is the largest university for natural health arts and sciences in the U.S., combining a multidisciplinary curriculum with leading-edge research and clinical training to educate future leaders in fields such as naturopathic medicine, acupuncture and Oriental medicine, and whole food nutrition. Founded in 1978 as the John Bastyr College of Naturopathic Medicine, Bastyr University now offers more than 15 accredited degree and certificate programs. Bastyr was the nation's first natural health arts and sciences university to receive funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Bastyr University Research Institute plays a key role in the growth of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) research. The University's teaching clinic, Bastyr Center for Natural Health, offers quality natural health care to the greater Seattle community while providing essential clinical training for students. For additional information about Bastyr University and its teaching clinic, Bastyr Center for Natural Health, visit
www.bastyr.edu or www.bastyrcenter.org.
