I had my first therapeutic massage yesterday.

[no_hypocrisy]

I have a painful fallen arch and have been semi-hobbling since December.

I have insoles and they help, but I needed more.

My friend is a massage therapist and I figured why not. I initiated contact, not her.

I got an entire body massage, not just the foot. And it makes sense as the muscles are all connected. To my surprise, there was pain in the hip of the same leg where the foot hurt.

Aesthetically, the sheets were soft and the table was warmed. I sighed as I lay down.

The massage was for 60 minutes.

I couldn't wait to take my B/P afterwards. Before I left, it was 159/91. When I took it again after the therapy, it was 131/81. I didn't realize how much stress I had been taking on.

And yes, to my amazement, no pain when I walked to the car. (It's returned today, but somewhat diminished.)

While I don't have the money for even monthly visits, I plan to save up to return for more therapy.