Reflexology was recently introduced to the western world for its relaxing and therapeutic benefits and its focus on total body healing.
What is reflexology?
Reflexology, which is also known as zone therapy, is a massage technique that resembles acupuncture without actually penetrating the skin.
The word "reflex" refers to an action that results in direct response to a stimulus, and it encompasses the methodology of this massage.
According to reflexology, the body is divided into 10 zones, with five on each side. Your masseur can use these zones to directly treat specific areas and affect how the corresponding body parts function.
For example, according to reflexology, the tip of the thumb mirrors the pituitary gland. So stimulating the thumb's tip can promote healing or an awakening in the pituitary gland.
Pressure can be applied to fingers, toes, palms, and pads of your feet— all without oil or lotion for maximum accuracy. This stimulation is supposed to change the body since the nerves on hands and feet are sensitive and highly responsive to touch.
Each body part has a corresponding zone on the foot or hand. Because there's a flow of energy that connects the pressure points to the organs or body parts in question.
If there is pain in a particular zone during the massage, that means that energy is blocked or there are problems with the corresponding organ.
In this situation, massaging the right pressure point can clear the energy blockage and heal the body internally.
What are the benefits of reflexology?
First and foremost, massage reduces stress. Reflexology is an excellent method to reduce stress and allow the patient to focus on specific areas of healing.
Hands and feet have many nerves that make this kind of massage particularly powerful.
Reflexology can help with many troublesome conditions that include but are not limited to:
- Anxiety
- Asthma
- Cardiovascular problems
- Sinus problems
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Arthritis
- Hypertension
This is just a short list of the conditions that reflexology has been shown to help with. When so many pains and aches are related to stress, any massage that aids in reducing stress is beneficial. There are even pressure points to help naturally relieve menstrual cramps and constipation!
In addition, reflexology is also ideal for clients who are more timid about removing their clothing during a massage. Since this massage just deals with the hands and feet, there's no need to remove articles of clothing, unless you're wearing gloves, shoes, and socks.
It's an excellent "gateway" massage that can help you gain a level of comfort with professional massages. Reflexology is also good for stimulating blood flow and sending nutrients to other areas of your body.
Some even say that this alternative treatment can soothe psychological symptoms by restoring a natural balance to your body. For example, massaging the tops of your toes can release serotonin, a happiness hormone that can combat depression.
What you can expect during a reflexology massage
First, you'll have an initial consultation in which your therapist will ask you about your main health concerns. Your therapist will then make a plan about which pressure points to target in order to bring you relief and healing.
For example, if your sinuses are a major problem, your masseuse will focus on the tips of your pinky and ring fingers during the massage. If your stomach has been giving you issues, then massaging the center of your right palm can help ease troublesome symptoms.
During the massage, your therapist will isolate the pressure points in question to send signals to your brain, allowing the corresponding body parts to respond to the stimuli. As a result, they can either relax or you'll feel a reduction of pain in the area in question.
Working with these different zones is meant to redistribute energy and bring balance to the body naturally. Blockages of energy are removed, helping you feel relief from many bodily maladies.
Massage sessions can range in length but typically last 30-45 minutes for maximum stress relief.
Try reflexology for yourself!
Reflexology is an ancient massage method that has many incredible health benefits, especially in the area of stress reduction.
Its intention is not to cure any existing condition. But it can give you relief from chronic conditions and also give you a feeling of deep relaxation.
If you have questions about reflexology and how it can benefit you, contact us. We'll be happy to assist you!
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