WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY?

Reflexology is the science or method of stimulating reflexes of the foot, hand or ear that correspond to each gland, organ and part of the body. Stimulation of these reflexes serves to relax and normalize all functions of the body in order to promote a natural balance and revitalization. In ancient times, walking barefoot over rocks and hard ground naturally stimulated these reflexes every day.

 

FOOT REFLEXOLOGY BASICS

Foot reflexology is a simple, non-invasive method to help balance the body. It has been described as a natural therapy that requires the application of a specific type of pressure on particular areas of the feet. It is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet which correspond to every part of the body. Reflexology serves to relax, improve circulation and promote a general feeling of wellness.*

When doing reflexology, the feet are generally used the most. The foot reflexology chart below gives the main areas when working the bottoms of the feet. **

 

HAND REFLEXOLOGY BASICS

Hand reflexology is an holistic and natural form of massage therapy, that can target your key body zones from the palm of your hand. It may be considered a healing zone body therapy, and is a popular choice for self-massage and holistic medicine. Hand reflexology defines specific zones, pressure points, and energy centers located on the palm and backs of your hands; when these areas are massaged appropriately, different organs and functions of the body are affected.***

 

 

DOES REFLEXOLOGY CURE DISEASES OR AILMENTS?

Reflexology is not intended to cure diseases or ailments. Reflexology can be a valuable way of indicating areas where higher stress or tension is present in the body and can assist to relieve that stress or tension which can promote or encourage the natural healing process.

 

WHAT DOES REFLEXOLOGY DO?

Reflexology can relieve tension and promote relaxation. Medical studies show that over 75% of all health problems can be linked to tension and stress. Our modern lifestyles not only cause a great deal of this stress, but also do nothing to relieve it. In ancient times, we had stress of a different nature, and due to the ancient lifestyle, were able to naturally treat tension and stress without even realizing it.

 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

There are many theories about how Reflexology works, but the most commonly held belief is that Reflexology acts to relax those reflexes that in turn are connected to various parts of the body, improving lymphatic drainage and circulation as well as relaxing muscles and stimulating nerve connections. Reflexology is primarily a relaxation technique, and while research clearly indicates that Reflexology benefits patients health in both chronic and other ailments, it is not a substitute for medical treatment, and should be considered as complementary to any type of medical treatment. Extensive research on reflexology has validated the effectiveness of Reflexology. 

 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY?

Reflexology primarily eases stress and tension, which in turn can improve blood circulation, lymph drainage, assist in the elimination of toxins, and strengthening of the immune system. It enables the body's natural healing processes to promote wellness.

 

CAN REFLEXOLOGY MAKE A CONDITION WORSE?

No. Reflexology is a non-invasive natural therapy that relaxes the body and is essentially harmless. On rare occasions, release of toxins as a result of the body's natural healing process may result in symptoms such as perspiration, nausea or headaches, however these symptoms are not directly related to Reflexology, and are temporary and not serious.

 

 

 

Back to Top

 

Home

 

References:
Sylvia Carson - Suite101.com - Foot Reflexology Basics*
Pure-and-Simple-Healing.com**
Sabah Karimi - AssociatedContent.com - Benefits of Hand Reflexology***