Introduction to Reflexology

 Introduction to Reflexology

Reflexology: What does it do and can it help you? The International Institute of Reflexology traces this ancient practice back to China in 4,000 B.C. and hieroglyphics show it was also used in Egypt. Originally referred to as Zone Therapy and used by US President Garfield, reflexology requires applying pressure to specific parts of the hands, feet or ears for the relief of pain, stress or to help our organs function properly. You may be unconsciously applying pressure to these specific parts of your feet when you self-massage them. During your self-massage, if you manipulate your toes, you are affecting your head and neck area. If you focus on the balls of your feet you are affecting your chest area. If you stimulate the top of your pinky toe you will affect your bladder. Each area of the foot is related to a specific part of your body. A Reflexologist is a trained professional who applies pressure to specific areas through the use of a chart which illustrates which part of the body corresponds to a specific part of the foot.

Many people on the medical field agree that reflexology is relaxing and it can have many positive benefits. The Mayo Clinic article referenced below stresses that reflexology may be a way to alleviate stress and reduce pain. The countless number of people who practice reflexology have found significant pain relief, physical balance and tremendous health benefits from it. The April 2013 Telegraph article below states that participants in a University of Portsmouth study had approximately 40% less pain and they could endure pain for a longer period of time. The researchers summarized that for their study, reflexology could be used to complement some medications and could be as effective as pain killers for certain conditions. In addition to relieving pain, organ function balance, sinus and stress relief,  reflexology has been used to aid infertility.

Sometimes during a reflexology session the reflexologists will ask if you are having a problem with a specific part of your body. Since each part of the foot corresponds with a part of the body, the reflexologists can sometimes detect an imbalance. Everyone agrees that reflexology is very relaxing however reflexology is not for everyone or for every ailment. In addition, drinking a glass of water prior to the session is recommended to compliment the techniques. There are also some precautions you will want to review before having a full reflexology session.

You can learn more about reflexology and expand your foot self-massages or you can get a partner and practice reflexology together. For a more thorough outcome, consult a professional reflexologist. I’ve included a couple of educational videos and several informative links to help you learn about reflexology. I enjoyed my professional session and felt the benefits of it for quite some time afterwards. Enjoy!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrvnnf7wzj4

http://www.reflexology-uk.net/site/about-reflexology/reflexology-history
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/what-is-reflexology/faq-20058139
http://www.how-to-do-reflexology.com/reflexologyfootmap.html