Reflexology
is a form of bodywork that involves applying pressure to the hands and feet to
produce changes in pain and other benefits elsewhere in the body. Reflexology,
although it's often combined with massage, is technically not a form of
massage. It's a separate practice that applies pressure to reflex zones on your
feet, hands or outer ears to affect your entire body.
How Does Reflexology Work?
The
underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are certain points or
"reflex areas" on the feet and hands that are connected energetically
to specific organs and body parts through energy channels in the body. By
applying pressure to reflex areas, a reflexologist is said to remove energy
blockages and promote health in the related body area.
Here are some examples of reflex
areas and their corresponding body parts:
The tips of
the toes reflect the head
The heart
and chest are around the ball of the foot
The liver,
pancreas, and kidney are in the arch of the foot
Low back and
intestines are towards the heel
Massage therapist or reflexologist?
Although
some massage therapists have a basic working knowledge of reflex zones and use
it in their massage practice, foot or hand massage isn't necessarily using
reflex zones. Many styles of massage include foot or hand massage techniques
not related to reflex zones.
Reflexologists
specialize. A reflexologist may also be a massage therapist, but some
reflexologists are not. A session from a reflexologist typically lasts from 30
to 60 minutes, and you only need to remove your shoes and socks for foot reflex
work. Who do you
want to see? It depends on what you're looking for. Do you specifically want
reflex zone work or do you just want a little reflex zone work mixed in with an
overall massage? Both options are perfectly valid.
Although the
roots of reflexology go back to ancient Egypt and China, William H. Fitzgerald,
an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced this concept of "zone
therapy" in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed
the zone theory in the 1930's into what is known as modern reflexology.
According to
reflexologists, pressure on the reflex points also helps to balance the nervous
system and stimulates the release of endorphins that help to reduce pain and
stress.
Why Do People Get Reflexology?
Stress and
stress-related conditions
Tension
headaches and migraines
Digestive
disorders
Arthritis
Insomnia
Hormonal
imbalances
Sports
injuries
Menstrual
disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Digestive
problems, such as constipation
Multiple
sclerosis
Back pain
What Is a Typical Session Like?
A typical
treatment is 30 to 60 minutes long and begins with a health history form and
consultation about your health and lifestyle. The reflexologist will use the
information to customize the therapy.
The
reflexologist will assess the feet and stimulate various points to identify
areas of tenderness or tension. Brisk movements and massage may be used to warm
the hands and feet. Finger or thumb pressure is then applied to the foot using
reflexology techniques. Lotion or
oil may be used, and the reflexologist may also use instruments like balls,
brushes, and dowels.
What Does Reflexology Feel Like?
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.
How Will I Feel Afterward?
Most people
feel calm and relaxed after a reflexology session. Occasionally, some people
feel nausea, sleepiness, and mood swings.
The Takeaway
Although
reflexology shouldn't be used as a sole treatment for any condition, it can be
a relaxing therapy for your feet with whole-body benefits. Just be sure to find
a trained reflexologist and to check with your health care provider to see if
it's right for you.
Check 20 top places for Reflexology in London here.
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