If you’re looking for a unique and relaxing massage experience, reflexology may be the right choice for you. Reflexology is a type of massage that involves applying pressure to the feet, hands, and ears. It’s based on the theory that these body parts are connected to certain organs and body systems. People who practice this technique are called reflexologists.
Reflexologists believe that applying pressure to these parts offers a range of health benefits. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at what reflexology is and what it can do for you!
How does reflexology work?
There are a few different theories about how reflexology works.
In traditional Chinese medicine
The ancient Chinese believed in qi, or “vital energy,” and that this energy flows through each individual. When a person is stressed, however, the flow of qi can be disrupted resulting in an imbalance within their body which may lead to illness. In order to maintain balance and optimal health, reflexology utilizes specific points on the feet to help unblock any areas so that qi can continue flowing freely throughout your body for improved wellbeing.
Drawing from Chinese medicine, reflexologists use diagrams of various pressure points in the feet, hands and ears to identify where they ought to apply their massage technique. Each body part is connected with a specific point on the human frame. By following these maps, reflexologists can easily determine which areas require more attention than others.
With their touch, they believe that healing energy can be channeled to a person’s body until it reaches the afflicted area.
Other theories
In the late 1800s, British researchers came to a remarkable discovery – that nerves were connected between our skin and internal organs. Furthermore, they uncovered that our entire nervous system could respond to external elements such as touch.
A reflexologist’s expertise can help soothe the central nervous system, enabling tranquility and other advantages akin to a massage. It has been hypothesized that pain is an emotional experience molded by our mind. This means that sometimes physical stimuli cause this sensation while at times it might be due to psychological or mental strain.
Reflexology is a therapeutic practice that has been used to decrease pain and improve the mood of its recipients. This theory highlights the idea that human bodies are divided into 10 vertical zones, each containing different organs or body parts – with every finger and toe correspondingly linked to one zone. As such, some individuals believe that through calming touch reflexology can help reduce stress levels in those who receive it.
According to the Zone Theory, manipulating certain toes and fingers allows one to access every region in their body. By utilizing this technique, they can better target particular areas of pain or discomfort.
What are the potential benefits of reflexology?
Reflexology is linked to many potential benefits, but only a few of them have been evaluated in scientific studies.
- reduce stress and anxiety
- reduce pain
- lift mood
- improve general well-being
In addition, people have reported that reflexology helped them:
- boost their immune system
- fight cancer
- get over colds and bacterial infections
- clear up sinus issues
- recover from back problems
- correct hormonal imbalances
- boost fertility
- improve digestion
- ease arthritis pain
- treat nerve problems and numbness from cancer drugs (peripheral neuropathy)
Is reflexology safe to try?
Reflexology is usually a safe practice, even for those facing more serious health issues. It’s nonintrusive and comfortable to receive, so it may be worth incorporating if you’re interested in exploring this approach. However, talking with your medical provider beforehand is recommended for anyone struggling with the following conditions:
- circulatory problems in the feet
- blood clots or inflammation of your leg veins
- gout
- foot ulcers
- fungal infections, like athlete’s foot
- open wounds on your hands or feet
- thyroid problems
- epilepsy
- a low platelet count or other blood problems, which can make you bruise and bleed more easily
Despite having any existing physical ailments, reflexology may still be an option for you; however, taking precautionary measures is essential in ensuring that nothing negative happens as a result.
