Business puts relaxation at customers' feet

Hazel Aquino works as a computer programmer and feels the stress of holding a corporate job while raising a family.

To help her cope, she found reflexology, a practice that uses pressure points on the hands and feet to relieve stress. It worked so well for her that she recently started a business in Glen Ellyn using the philosophy.

The Carol Stream resident launched Teas and Toes teahouse and sanctuary less than a month ago at 413 N. Main St. The tea, health and foot sanctuary offers an array of services to help clients unwind.

Highlights of the spalike business include herbal foot soaks and reflexology, as well as a large variety of brewed teas.

The idea for the business developed a while back when Aquino was reading about how foot massage places in China were growing in popularity. A native of the Philippines, Aquino read that corporate meetings were held at foot massage businesses to create a more relaxed atmosphere.

"When you're relaxed, conversation flows more easily," Aquino said.

She picked up on the idea and offers foot soaks with aromatherapy essential oils and natural ingredients. The soaks go for $30 for 20 minutes. Lavender, sage and green tea are included in the foot baths.

Aquino points out that the essential oils are more quickly absorbed through the feet.

Reflexology treatments are another feature designed to provide relaxation. The foot massage is based on the principle that each body part is represented on the feet and pressing on specific areas can have therapeutic effects on other parts of the body.

These treatments start at $35 for 20 minutes. A heated shoulder pack is placed on the customer to provide additional pampering.

Tea services can also be added. The shop offers more than 30 teas including black, green, white and herbal teas. A pot of brewed tea is $3.50 during a treatment. Cups of tea to go range in price from $2.50 to $3.50, said Aquino, 34.

The entrepreneur admits she is concerned about launching a business during a recession. But she believes that people are even more stressed at this time and need to treat themselves. "People who are working are doing more than ever," she added.

"People need a little treat for themselves," said Aquino., who is raising two children with husband, Johnny, also a programmer.

The shop is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday.

For more, check out teasandtoes.com. or call (630) 469-8327.