Reflexology is a hands-on healing art based on ancient Chinese therapy. Like acupressure, it works with the body’s energy flow to promote self-healing and maintain balance. The practice involves the manipulation of certain areas of the foot (and sometimes the hands and ears) that are believed to correspond to specific parts of the body. By alleviating muscle tension and stress, reflexology can leave you feeing energized.
“The theory of reflexology is based on a kind of map of the human body”, explains Bill Flocco, one of the leading practioners of reflexology in the United States. “Imagine dividing the body into ten wide vertical strips – one for the thumb and big toe, all the way over to one for the small toe and small fingers. Then imagine a similar division into horizontal zones. The reflexologist determines where the stress in the body is and then goes to work on the corresponding zones for the hands, ears, and feet”.
For instance, the ball and pad of the foot relate to the chest, and the soft sole of the foot corresponds to the upper abdomen. When the reflexologist applies a particular kind of nurturing touch and pressure to these areas, says Flocco, “the nerve pathways go directly to the brain and then outward to a specific part of the body that corresponds to that area of the hands, feet, or ears”. The result, he explains, is cascade of chemical events that alleviate stress and pain and frequently increase energy.
“The nerves become soothed, and as nerves become soothed, muscles relax. As muscles relax, circulation improves, capillaries open up, and more blood is carried to the cells of the body”, says Flocco.
All of this is good news if you want to see your energy boosted. “More oxygen and nutrition are taken to the cells, and as the cells get more oxygen and nutrition they’re better able to produce the thousand of chemicals, including endorphins, that are carried around the body and that support the healing process”.
How it feels?
Most people find reflexology for the most part to be very relaxing.
Reflexology shouldn't be painful. If you feel discomfort, be sure to tell the reflexologist. He or she should work within your comfort zone.
Some areas may be tender or sore, and the reflexologist may spend extra time on these points. The soreness should decrease with pressure.
If you're ticklish, not to worry. The reflexologist applies firm pressure to the feet.
Most people feel calm and relaxed after a treatment. They may even feel sleepy.
Occasionally, people feel nauseous, anxious, or tearful, but this is only temporary and is considered to be part of the healing process.
Why do people get reflexology?
Stress and stress-related conditions
Tension headaches
Digestive disorders
Arthritis
Insomnia
Hormonal imbalances
Sports injuries
Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Digestive problems, such as constipation
Back pain
Reflexology is a popular alternative therapy. It promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, soothes tired feet, and encourages overall healing.
Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. A study in the American Cancer Society journal found that one-third of cancer patients used reflexology as a complementary therapy.
Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy and should not replace medical treatment.
