I’m a busy girl, always on my feet, whether I’m getting work done or having fun. And I enjoy nothing better than pampering my tootsies, whether that means comfortable shoes, creamy pedicures, and long barefoot walks on the beach or dew-flecked grass.

So when I came across a place that promised to send my feet to heaven and back, I was overjoyed. It meant taking a walk down Bandra’s charming little Pali village, climbing up a short flight of marigold-flower decorated stairs until I found myself in the cool, quiet and cosy Metta.

I played a quick game of chess with myself in the waiting area before I was escorted inside. Chattai curtains, little clay chimes hanging from the windows, sunlight streaming in and marigold flowers dotting the edges of the floor space put me at ease immediately. And after I lay down on the massage table, I drifted off as a talented masseuse soothed my tired feet with strong fingers and reflexology moves. I was gently awakened so she could go to work on my shoulders and head, her discreetly checking every now and then if the pressure was just right.

I opened my eyes and stretched, feeling like a new girl, fresh with more energy and relaxed enough to take on the world!

Besides not costing as much as the swish spas for such a wonderful experience, what made the deal even sweeter was knowing that I had done my good deed for the day. Metta, meaning ‘kindness’ in the ancient Pali language, is run by Jenny Figuerido, who has trained and employed seven hearing and visually handicapped individuals from the National Association for the Blind to be expert therapists with a truly evolved sense of touch.

I sure glad I ‘metta’ all of them!