If you look at a reflexology map of the feet, you see that each foot resembles the human body. The big toe, which houses the brain and pituitary gland reflex, represents the head, and the upper middle section of the right foot houses the liver reflex and happens to be the same side of the body the liver is on. Reflexology gives you access to reflexes that correspond with all body parts and encourages healing as a whole. Although reflexology is beneficial to the healing process, Joel Gerson cautions in his book "Milady's Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians," saying reflexology should not be performed on people who have diabetes, heart conditions or problems with circulation or expecting mothers without a note from their doctor.
Significance
Reflexology stimulates more than 7,000 nerve endings located in the feet. It also stimulates reflexes that correspond with every body organ. Reflexology for feet is a natural healing method many people are unaware of, but by learning more, they can reap its many benefits.
Preparation
Most reflexologists have their clients lie face up on a massage table for foot reflexology. The feet and knees are usually supported by a pillow, with a towel under the feet and another pillow under the head. Sometimes a heating pad is used; a blanket can also be helpful to keep the client warm, because reflexology relaxes the body, resulting in a drop in temperature. The person receiving reflexology should be as comfortable as possible.
Technique
Reflexology utilizes various hand and finger techniques to promote relaxation and healing. To relax the feet, the hands gently stroke the lower portion of the legs and the tops and bottoms of the feet. The heels are cupped in the palms of the hands, and the legs and feet are gently rocked from side to side. Light pressure is applied with the tips of the thumbs, which also slide across the soles of the feet to relax the body and are pressed into the solar plexus reflex on the soles of the feet to trigger an even deeper state of relaxation.
Benefits
According to "Linda Page's Healthy Healing," more than 80 percent of the health problems people suffer with are stress related. One of the best benefits of reflexology is relaxation, which can help prevent illness. Enhanced circulation is another benefit. Since blood nourishes the body's cells, reflexology helps keep the body in a healthy state by improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients. Reflexology also cleanses the body by removing impurities, and it helps to remove blockages that lie in pathways where energy flows. Overall, reflexology enhances immunity and balances the body.
Considerations
Because some people take more time to heal and some take less, the time it takes for reflexology to work may differ with each person. Older people and people with serious health problems may need more frequent sessions that are shorter (20 to 30 minutes) for best results. These people need to be worked on using a light touch.
References
- Pattelle Staff Association: What is Reflexology
- "Linda Page's Healthy Healing, All New Eleventh Edition"; Linda Page; 2001
- "Milady's Standard Textbook for Professional Estheticians", Joel Gerson, 1999
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