Asked by: Nicolina Kaltofen
family and relationships eldercare

Why we touch the feet of elders?

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The science behind touching the feet ofelders
The act of padasparshan (touching the feet) hasa profound scientific reason. When the elder accepts thisrespect, their heart becomes filled with good thoughts and positiveenergy, which they give out through their hands andfeet.


Subsequently, one may also ask, why do we bow down to Elders?

Touching the feet of elders is a very commongesture in the Indian tradition and it is an age old customof showing one's respect to elders and those who arespiritually accomplished. The main reason behind this gestureis to bow down and show respect to theelder.

Likewise, why do Indians touch the feet? This gesture can be seen in almost all Hindu families,both in India and abroad. Indians believe that when a personbows down and touches the feet of their elders, their egogets suppressed as this gesture indicates respecting the age,experience, achievements and wisdom of the person whose feetare being touched.

Consequently, why do we do pranam?

- In Sashtang Pranam whole body isstretched and cures the body pain. Therefore, from the abovearticle we come to know that there are lots ofbenefits in touching the feet of an elder as it gives a kind ofrespect and dedication which arouse automatically and helps insuppressing the egoistic nature of a person.

Why does touching feet feel good?

It works like massage elsewhere on the body, warmingtissues, increasing circulation, and carrying off metabolic waste.So a foot massage stimulates and balances energy in thosemeridians and organs. A foot massage may actually releaseendorphins as well as reduce stress hormones. No wonder itfeels so good!

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