Reflexology massage involves the manual manipulation of your feet and hands in order to relieve stress and restore balance to the body. Based on the belief that your body's tension levels are set by your hands and feet, reflexologists use vigorous massage to stimulate the nervous system to release tension and reset the body's equilibrium.
The Theory Behind Reflexology
Like other forms of holistic medicine, reflexology aims to support the body's own natural healing ability. Reflexology is based on the theory that your hands and feet both have a number of reflex areas that directly correspond to certain parts of your body, including your internal organs and glands.
Practitioners believe that applying pressure to these reflex points can treat a wide variety of health complaints. Using maps of the hands and the feet as guide, reflexologists apply pressure to problem areas to increase the flow of endorphins in your body, relieve stress and promote relaxation. Reflexology has become a popular complement to traditional post-operative care and pain management programs for cancer patients.
How It Differs from Acupressure and Massage
Although reflexology, acupressure and massage are all consider touch therapies, each method of touch is based on different energetic principles, different locations on the body and different techniques.
Acupressure works with a series of energy lines called meridians that run the length of the body. Along those meridians are over 800 pressure or acupoints. Approximately 30 of those points are thought to be located on the hands and feet, but only one meridian line travels to the bottom of the foot. With acupressure, the entire outer body functions as map to the internal body; reflexology maps the entire body on the feet and the hands.
Massage is another form of touch therapy that involves the entire body with emphasis on the muscular, circulatory and lymphatic systems. Reflexologists believe that by simply working with your hands and feet, those systems are supported in addition to everything else inside the body, including your internal organs. Massage therapists work from the outside in and manipulate muscles, tissues and ligaments to release tension; reflexologist may describe their work as happening from inside out as the primary goal is to stimulate the nervous system to release tension.
Conditions that May Benefit from Reflexology
People turn to reflexology for a variety of conditions including tension headaches, digestive issues, menstrual pain and insomnia. Proponents claim that reflexology is successful in the treatment of certain respiratory conditions, skin problems and anxiety. There is little or no scientific evidence to back these claims and experiences with reflexology are likely to be as varied as the individuals who pursue it.
Choosing a Reflexologist
Reflexology is unlicensed, unregulated and unaccredited practice. Reflexologists often study at massage therapy schools, with practicing reflexologists or on their own, relying on a wealth of books and other materials on the subject.
If you're considering giving reflexology a try, ask massage therapists, trusted friends or even your primary care doctor for recommendations. You want to be sure the reflexologist you visit isn't just experienced, but can also work with you to determine if reflexology is producing the results you're looking for.
If you have serious health issues, are pregnant or taking medication, be sure to discuss reflexology with your doctor. Certain conditions like gout, foot ulcers and blood clots may require your doctor's okay before you begin reflexology treatments. When you visit a reflexologist for the first time, be sure to share your medical history and information about your medications with them.
Do-It-Yourself Reflexology
One of the great benefits of reflexology is that once you understand the principles, you can do it yourself anytime, anywhere. The most important thing is consistency; if you practice reflexology here and there you're less likely to feel a difference. Learn techniques from a skilled practitioner and practice them consistently-it's better to practice ten minutes daily than for an hour twice a month. If nothing else, practicing reflexology foot massage will make your feet feel better.
 | Reflexology has been practiced in one form or another for thousands of years. More recently, studies regarding the scientific basis behind reflexology began in the early 1900s in both Russia and Europe. |
 | A general reflexology massage will benefit your entire body much like a full body massage. |
When many people are in some type of physical pain, he/she often pays a visit to the doctor's office or even a trip to the hospital. But what if this pain is taking place in the feet? Are there any procedures for feet problems? The answer is yes. |
A regular massage session is known to benefit the body and mind in revitalizing the energy flow of our bodies. From time to time, you may find certain parts and functions of your body requiring specific attention that may not necessary be related to muscles and joints and in this case, you may want to consider a reflexology massage to target that particular area. |
With so many reflexology techniques at your disposal, it may seem daunting to choose one that is best for you. Self-reflexology is a therapy that has grown in popularity during the last several years. |
