Holistic health is the alternative medicine concept of addressing the conditions of the entire person rather than focusing the treatment on the physical symptoms alone. Holistic practices examine the physical, mental and emotional factors affecting health and well-being. Holistic massage therapy and reflexology often include massage movements, visualization techniques and metaphysical causation theory. The effectiveness of these practices for treating specific health conditions has not been scientifically proven. Discuss massage and reflexology with your physician.
Massage
Massage therapy involves the manipulation of soft tissues. Massage therapists offer full-body treatments, and massage, by nature, is a holistic procedure. Massage techniques include gliding and kneading strokes, range of motion stretches and pressure-point stimulation. While more research is necessary to confirm the benefits of massage, the Mayo Clinic says that some studies have found massage helpful for physical and psychological conditions, including pain, stiffness, stress relief and managing anxiety and depression.
Reflexology
Reflexology involves the stimulation of specific reflex areas on the hands and feet. According to the Associated Bodywork and Massage Professionals website, the reflex areas correspond to other parts of the body and manipulating these reflex zones can affect body organs and relieve congestion. "This technique is used to reduce pain, increase relaxation and stimulate circulation of blood and lymphatic fluids," the site says, adding that reflexology "is especially useful in stress-related conditions and emotional disorders." There is not enough scientific evidence to confirm the effectiveness of reflexology treatments.
Visualization Techniques
During a holistic massage session, the therapist may encourage visualization techniques. Joseph Feldman, professional counselor and licensed massage practitioner, describes a metaphysical technique he used while massaging a client who was undergoing breast cancer treatment. "I asked her to imagine that her body was a pole of bright, white light from her head to her feet, surrounded by an egg-shaped aura of light radiating out from the pole. I told her to envision a search beam from the heavens, shining throughout the universe, searching for poles of light to connect with," Feldman says. These visualization techniques are not scientifically proven to be effective.
Metaphysical Causation
Holistic massage therapists may address metaphysical causes and psychosomatic conditions. According to Louise Hay, metaphysical lecturer and author of "Heal Your Body," "We have learned that for every effect in our lives, there is a thought pattern that precedes and maintains it. Negative thought patterns produce unrewarding experiences and can result in physical problems." For example, Hay maintains that problems with a stiff neck are related to inflexible thinking. These concepts are not supported by scientific evidence.
Medical Considerations
Holistic massage and reflexology do not replace medical care. The Mayo Clinic advises you to consult your physician before massage, especially if you have unexplained pain, open wounds, cancer, fractures or are pregnant. "In rare circumstances, massage can cause: internal bleeding, nerve damage, temporary paralysis and allergic reactions to massage oils or lotions," the clinic says. Inquire about the training and certifications of a potential massage therapist.
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