What is reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient practice that’s objective is to keep the body balanced. It is founded on the theory that all organs, glands, muscles, and the skeletal system can be stimulated. This is done via points on the feet, hands, and outer ears. The pathways between these pressure points and other parts of the body are connected via the nervous system. All through a reflexology session, your massage therapist applies pressure to the feet, hands, and outer ears using specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques. Customarily, reflexology is a dry practice, although when incorporated into a massage it can be done with different massage oils or lotions.

What is the difference between Massage and Reflexology?

Massage therapists work “from the outside in,” working specific muscle groups or fascia to release tension. In contrast, a reflexologist masseuse works “from the inside out” by stimulating the nervous system to release tension.

If reflexology is combined into your massage, you are able to address both the inside and the outside in one massage session. Joining reflexology and massage can achieve even more positive results than just a basic massage.

How Does Reflexology Work?

Reflexology works by utilising the central nervous system. The use of pressure to “reflex points” sends a soothing message through the nervous system. This in turn signals the body to adjust the tension level. Furthermore, it helps with relaxation by bringing internal organs to a state of optimal functioning, and also increases blood supply. Additionally, it positively affects the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, immune, and neuropeptide systems in the body.

Another reflexology concept is based on the belief that there is an “energy” or “qi” in the human body. Lengthy periods of stress are believed to fester in the body. This in turn can cause a bottleneck of energy that leads to susceptibility to illness. Because of this theory, reflexology helps keep the energy moving, thereby sustaining strong immunity.

In a nutshell!

The elementary theory behind reflexology is that the whole body can be charted out on the feet, hand, or ears. This is achieved with different “reflex points” that correspond to their respective areas of the body. When a masseuse understands how to read these maps, they can help achieve relaxation, improve circulation, and contribute to a general feeling of wellness.

Benefits of Reflexology

Possibly the most well-known and substantiated benefits of reflexology is advance in circulation throughout the body. This in turn creates more oxygen which reaches vital organs, thereby optimizing their functioning and additionally increasing the metabolism. This also results in faster healing and re-growth of damaged cells.

Reflexology is also known to be beneficial in restoring balance and harmony in the body and releasing tension. It can help to create a deep state of relaxation, calm the emotions, and produce a serene mind. Most people can experience a profound sense of relaxation and increased energy following their session.

Other benefits of reflexology may include:

• Better sleep
• Aid to eliminate toxins in the body
• Better bladder function
• Reduced depression and anxiety
• Decreased high blood pressure
• Reduced urinary tract infections
• Reduction in the harshness of a migraine
• Can calm pain during pregnancy
• Reduces post-operative pain
• Helps reduce symptoms of Fibromyalgia
• General health maintenance