07/18/2021
A great explanation of what reflexology is, how it works and what to expect during a session. I would love to answer any questions you may have.
What Is Reflexology?
Reflexology is like massage meets acupuncture without the needles.
It differs from them because the reflexes connect to every part of the body, so areas that are painful or sore can be focused on without having to work directly on the affected area.
The reflexology sessions can be done on the hands, ears, feet or face depending on the reflexology therapists training and client preferences.
Regardless of which type of session is selected, reflex points for every part of the body can be worked.
Reflexology is based on the principle of zone therapy, where if there is an imbalance in a zone, it can impact the entire zone.
The theory, originates from ancient China and Egypt, and is mentioned in medical texts as far back as 4000 BC.
Similar to the potential benefits of acupuncture, reflexology requires pressure on specific reflexes that correspond to the desired part, gland or organ of the body.
By stimulating the reflexes, it can encourage the body to go into parasympathetic mode – the state of rest and repair, where the body is able to rejuvenate and restore balance.
Because reflexology is believed to increase circulation, it is contraindicated for clients that have recently had a stroke or blood clots unless it has been confirmed by a doctor that it is safe to increase blood flow.
Despite being one of the oldest healing practices, reflexology wasn't adopted in the West until the 1500s, and again in the 20th century when it was Westernized, and perhaps simplified, in Russia and Europe.
Practitioners of Traditional Chinese Medicine use reflexology to balance Qi, a philosophical concept that refers to energy.
Traditional holistic philosophy views disease as an imbalance or blockage in the body instead of something diagnosed, so once the blockage is removed and the energy can flow freely, theoretically, symptoms will subside and health will return.
The Potential Benefits Of Reflexology Are:
● Strengthened immune system
● Enhanced energy
● Reduced anxiety and stress
● Relief from aches and pains without needing additional medication
● Stimulation of blood circulation
● Blood pressure balanced
● Relief from congestion
● Activating internal organs
Areas of the body that the reflexes of the foot correspond with:
Toes — Head and Neck
Spine — Inside of both feet, running the length of the foot
The widest diameter of the foot — chest, digestive system, bladder
Middle of the foot — the waistline of the body
Heels and ankle — pelvic and reproductive organs
What is a reflexology session like?
Sessions are usually between 45 – 60 minutes.
A reflexology therapist does not treat for specific conditions because the one body system can impact another when it is out of balance; therefore, all systems are worked with every session.
Before your first session, you will be asked to complete a health record so your reflexologist therapist will have a better understanding of which reflexes to pay extra attention to encourage homeostasis.
The session can take place in a reclined chair or while the client is lying down.
During a reflexology session, the therapist will rub, press, and compress points on your feet.
Therapists may concentrate on specific body parts in an effort to help alleviate discomfort from ailments.
As an example, if you have sinus issues, they may concentrate on your toes, but will still work the entire foot to provide support to all the body systems.
