What is Reflexology and What Can it Help?

Have you ever had a hand or foot massage that made you feel a million times better afterward? Or maybe you’ve had a head massage and they took the time to massage your ears, which left you feeling more rejuvenated than you expected? Without even realizing it, you’ve experienced the power of reflexology and its positive effects on the body.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is an alternative medicine practice, also known as “zone therapy”, that involves the application of pressure to areas on the feet, hands, and ears. The theory is that different areas of these body parts correspond to other organs and body systems, and by applying pressure to these body parts it improves the health of those coinciding organs or body systems. These organs and body systems include, but are not limited to, the head and brain, the pituitary gland, the eyes, ears, teeth, lungs, liver, bladder, and so much more. And those are just some of the pressure points on your feet!

During your reflexology treatment, you’ll experience different massage movements like kneading the balls of the feet, pulling on the toes, tracing around the heel, and pushing deeply into the arch of the foot. If you experience any sensitivity or tenderness during these movements, it is an indication of weakness or imbalance in the corresponding organ, but with repeated practice you will notice an improvement. A reflexology session lasts approximately 30 minutes. If you’re experiencing any symptoms, like constipation or blocked sinuses, mention this to your reflexologist so that they can target areas specifically related to those issues. For more information about reflexology, the different parts of the body it affects, and how it could improve your overall well being, please contact one of our massage therapists.

How it Helps

It is important to mention that reflexology is not intended to treat any medical condition, however it can alleviate some of the symptoms associated with a condition or illness. Studies funded by the National Cancer Institute have proven that reflexology is a good tool for stress relief and can reduce pain, improve the psychological symptoms of anxiety and depression, enhance relaxation, and improve sleep. Reflexology could also have benefits in palliative care that provides relief from symptoms, pain, physical stress, and mental illness at different stages of cancer.

By moving the flow of blood, nutrients, and nerve impulses, reflexology has the ability to cleanse the body of toxins, boost the immune system, increase circulation, promote healing, and balance energy in different areas of the body. Reflexology is a massage practice typically applied to the soles of the feet, but there are pressure points in your hands and in your ears as well that may benefit from reflexology treatment. It is important to talk to your massage therapist about the symptoms you’re having, or if you’d like to experience improved health overall. From there, they can decide which reflexology treatment that is right for you. Please contact us today with any further questions or if you’d like to schedule an appointment.

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