Reflexology Massage
What Is Reflexology Massage?
Reflexology is a therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (possibly on your hands or ears) to help you feel better. It is done so that this eases stress and helps your body work better. It's also been called "zone therapy."
The way reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside is a bit like acupuncture and acupressure. But those therapies use points all over your body, not just on your feet, hands, and ears. And while reflexologists do use their hands, it isn't a form of massage.
Like those other therapies, though, reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it's not an alternative, and reflexologists don't diagnose or treat illnesses.
Reflexology Benefits
Reflexology may help you feel less stressed, relaxed, and energized. But the benefits might go deeper if you have specific health issues.
Some people with medical conditions find less pain and discomfort if they have less stress, and reflexology may help with that.
Reflexology can have a direct effect on specific conditions, but based on what is known so far, it may ease:
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Anxiety among people who've had heart surgery
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Pain during labor
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Arthritis pain
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Some symptoms of multiple sclerosis, like fatigue and uncomfortable skin sensations
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Emotional and physical pain caused by cancer
It may also help:
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Improve sinus issues
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Relieve back pain
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Ease constipation
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7 Benefits Of A Reflexology Foot Massage
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Encourages Relaxation – Reflexology can flood the neural pathways with relaxation, inducing a state of peace and tranquility within the body and mind—this physiological change results in stress reduction. Stress reduction through reflexology therapy is frequently associated with relieving sleep disorders. This is accomplished by helping your body return to a more relaxed and balanced state, simultaneously working to restore a healthy Circadian rhythm, which is needed for sufficient sleep.
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Promotes Nervous System Stimulation – Open neural pathways benefit our central nervous system in various ways. The brain can handle inputs more effectively, speeding up cognitive strengths; thus, increasing the speed of physical reactions, which boosts your memory. Overall, the entire brain can work faster and more efficiently.
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Relieves Migraines and Headaches – Reflexology is often sought after by people in pain because reflexology can reduce the severity of migraines and headaches by increasing blood flow and relieving muscle tension. Since stress and psychological factors often manifest themselves as migraine symptoms, stress-induced headaches can also be eliminated.
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Revitalizes Nerve Function – Nerve endings lose sensitivity in parts of our body as we age (more so in the extremities). Reflexology has been associated with stimulating more than 7,000 different nerve endings during a 1-hour session, naturally increasing nerve functioning and reactivity. The opening and cleansing of neural pathways help improve overall functionality and reduce toxicity within the body.
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Improves Circulation – The most well-known and verified result of the reflexology is an improvement in circulation throughout the entire body, which means blood and oxygen are being cycled throughout the body more effectively. Due to this benefit, oxygen reaches vital organ systems, optimizing their function and increasing their metabolism.
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Increases Energy Levels – By aligning organ and muscle systems functions, reflexology can potentially increase metabolism and energy creation. In other words, reflexology sessions can help to re-energize your body and mind.
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Relieves Plantar Fasciitis Pain – Reflexology can help ease the pain and discomfort caused by plantar fasciitis. Reflexology is beneficial as it uses pressure point techniques to release tension, relieving the heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis. A natural cure for plantar fasciitis is a professional foot massage.
What You Can Expect During a Reflexology Session
To get to know you and ensure reflexology is suitable, I will ask questions about your health, what you eat, your lifestyle, and any conditions you have. Your answers will help me decide whether to work on your feet, hands, ears, or a combination. This is also the time to ask any questions you have.
You'll be in a soothing, spa-like setting with soft music, low lights, and aromatherapy. You might sit in a reclining chair or lie on a massage table. You'll keep your clothes on, but wear something comfortable so you can better relax.
I will usually start by gently smoothing oil or cream on your feet. Next, using different techniques, I'll put mild to moderate pressure on one foot at a time. I might return to specific pressure points a second time, but I'll cover the entire area during the session, not just the points connected to any trouble spots you might have.
Sessions are usually 30 or 60 minutes long. At some point, you might feel so relaxed that you fall asleep, or you could feel a rush of emotions as energy moves through your body. Afterward, you could feel energized or have a sense of calm.
