What is reflexology?
Alternative medicine - Reflexology - involves pressure application on specific areas and points present in our body. The concentration of pressure is usually in our ears, hands and feet. Health experts and Reflexologists believe that these particular areas are the source of reflex, capable of functioning along with the organ and nervous systems of our body. Pressure application on these particular points, will enhance the overall health and benefit these vital systems.
The term ‘Reflexology’ crops out from the word ‘Reflex’, which means, instinctive and involuntary motion, receptive to a stimulus.
Origin of Reflexology
Reflexology has been in practice from ancient times, as a form of therapy. Studies suggest that this type of treatment was in practice in China and Egypt, during the 4000 BC, and the evidence is prevalent in Ankmahor’s tomb, Egypt. Even the native Americans practiced reflexology, as foot therapy in ancient times.
Reflexology points in our body
The techniques of reflexology are applied on four points -
- Hands
- Feet
- Face
- Ears
Different types of reflexology methods
- Flocco method, which includes, ear, hand and foot reflexology
- Ear, hand and foot reflexology
- Meridian Reflexology
- Vertical Reflexology
How does reflexology work?
The source of its techniques is from the Chinese principle, which is based on the belief that certain parts of our body are designated reflex zones. These areas are built with millions of nerve endings that correspond to different important bodily organs and systems.
As per ancient Chinese belief, the practice of reflexology aids in the stimulation of body towards the path of effective healing. It boosts blood circulation, restores physical balance, reduces, aches, pains and stress.
Reflexology can treat health conditions, like:
- Asthma
- Thyroid disorders
- Blood pressure
- Bowel inconvenience
- Arthritis
- Sleep disorders like, insomnia
- Joint aches and pains
- Sinusitis
- Multiple sclerosis
- Gynecological problems and more.
Health benefits of reflexology
- Decreases blood pressure - High blood pressure is one of the leading health disorders today. Unhealthy diet, obesity, stress, tension, anxiety, etc. are all causes of high blood pressure. But genetics and environmental factors also lead to the development of high blood pressure in both men and women. Regular foot reflexology therapy aids in the enhancement of mental stability and reduction of both blood pressure and anxiety levels.
- Cures Migraines and headaches - Reflexology treatment fights migraines and headaches. Denmark’s health experts have validated this statement, through a recent study.
- Boosts circulation - Reflexology enables the cardiovascular vessels to control the blood flow in a smoother and natural manner. Blood carries and provides oxygen to the cells, along with vital nutrients. Along with this, blood also aids in the removal of waste and toxins, which are byproducts of metabolism. Reflexology helps reduce stress and pressure level in our body, which boosts our cardiovascular system.
- Increases energy - There are three reflexology points, which when applied with pressure increases the energy level of our body and treats fatigue, chronic stress conditions, like adrenal exhaustion and hypothyroidism, general malaise, etc. The first point is located on the ball of our foot. The second point is present on the sole of our foot and the third reflexology point - that help boost energy - is below the bulge of our big toe region.
- Strengthens immune system - The center of our immune system is the thymus gland. It enables antibodies to combat different diseases. Stress causes this thymus gland to shrink and become incapable of fighting diseases. The point of reflexology that ensures our thymus glands are healthy and vigorous, is present at the widest part of our foot. Applying pressure on this bunion bump of our feet, will reduce stress and boost the strength of the thymus gland.
- Stimulates the nervous system - Each of our foot is made of over 7000 nerves. With scheduled application of reflexology techniques, will help neutralizing and opening the pathways, thereby, reducing aches and discomfort.
Reflexology can treat health conditions but not diagnose medical conditions. Undergoing regular therapeutic sessions will ensure a healthy mental and physical balance, by reducing stress, depression, fatigue and energy loss. It is a holistic form of therapy, and one must always get it from a certified, trained and experienced reflexologist only. It is an ancient art of healing and in the modern day, this form of therapy is based on methods that were developed by an American physiotherapist - Eunice Ingham - in the 1930s.
