Reflexology is viewed in the west as a form of massage therapy often referred as “zone” therapy. Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works through the application of a focused massage on the feet or the hand; encouraging the body to heal itself.
This specific type of massage promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain and aims to restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and encourage healing. The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are reflexes areas on the feet, hands, face and ears which correspond to all areas of the body. Our physical body (muscles, bones, and organs), as well as our emotional body.
Most health problems can be linked to stress. Reflexology helps to relieve the stress we have in our daily lives and is suitable for all ages.
A Typical Treatment
On your first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary discussion with you to evaluate your health and lifestyle. During a treatment you will remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table.
Various points are then stimulated on the feet in order to identify areas of tenderness or tension. Following this brisk strokes are used to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied to reflexes on the feet according to your comfort level. Lotion or oil may be used during the treatment and soothing music may accompany the session to make it as relaxing as possible.
A typical treatment is 45 minutes to 60 minutes long and a course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body’s needs. Reflexology sessions can be done weekly or monthly in order to maintain health and wellbeing. The duration of the relaxation is a good indicator of the effectiveness of the session. Because reflexology is a noninvasive therapy.
Benefits
Reflexology is a good all round therapy that aims to improve our general health and sense of wellbeing and has been reported in successfully alleviating:
- Back Pain
- Migraine
- Anxiety
- Sleep disorders
- Fatigue
- Digestive disorders
- Stress related conditions