One skilled foot massager in the family can save on medical bills—Father Wu shares his top specialty from Changbin: foot reflexology

▲ “Father Wu’s Foot Reflexology” has become a signature local experience in Changbin, Taitung. (Photo / Reporter Lai Wenxuan)

Reported by Reporter Lai Wenxuan, Taitung

Along the road, you might spot foot massage parlors bearing Father Wu’s name, but to experience the most authentic version of Father Wu’s foot reflexology, you must visit Changbin in Taitung. Father Wu Roselius, originally from Switzerland, stumbled upon the world of foot reflexology during his time in Taiwan, which then led him down a path of research. Later, he passed on this wellness method to local residents in Changbin, helping them make a living through this skill.

▲ Father Wu Roselius teaches a new foot reflexology health method in Taiwan.

Father Wu Roselius from the Swiss Missionary Society of Bethlehem arrived in Taiwan in 1970. Originally suffering from hereditary rheumatoid arthritis, which caused him great pain while preaching, he was introduced by a colleague to foot therapy. This improved his condition and led him to explore what is commonly known as foot reflexology—or the new foot reflexology health method. He eventually became the pioneer of this therapy.

▲ Many of the massage therapists are local residents of Changbin, Taitung. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yuk-kang)

In addition to his missionary work, Father Wu spends his free time teaching interested locals in Taitung’s Changbin Catholic Church how to learn the new foot health method. He believes that“If one person in a family learns it, they can save on medical expenses.”By observing changes on the soles of the feet, one can uncover hidden health issues. Especially in rural areas where medical resources are scarce, helping families save on healthcare costs—or even turning foot therapy into a livelihood and main source of income—is something Father Wu is happy to support, and is part of his mission in coming to Taiwan.

▲ Therapists explain the hidden health conditions of those receiving massages as they work. (Photo / Reporter Lee Yuk-kang)

In recent years, many massage shops have claimed to offer services under Father Wu’s name. However, in reality, only 17 therapists across Taiwan have been personally certified by Father Wu. Certification takes at least a year, requires ongoing annual training, and includes a recertification system, making the process quite rigorous.

▲ %Relax and enjoy a professional foot massage. (Photo / Reporter Chen Huiyi)