Reflexology is an alternative health practice involving massage and pressure to the feet. Reflexology treatments are thought to provide health benefits as well as stress relief and relaxation. According to the Association of Reflexologists, reflexology treatments focus on your feet to help heal the whole body. Reflexologists base their therapy on the idea of zones located in your feet that correspond to parts of the rest of your body.
History
According to the Association of Reflexologists, the practice of reflexology dates to ancient times, when ancient Egyptians and Chinese would use foot massage as an integrated part of holistic healing. The idea of reflexology was brought to the West in 1913 by Dr. William Fitzgerald, when he incorporated the use of "zone therapy" after he noticed that certain zones in the feet and hands are linked to different parts of the body. Eunice Ingham further developed this practice into what is now referred to as reflexology after she noticed that congestion and tension in parts of the foot related to problems in the corresponding part of the body.
Significance
According to the International Academy of Medical Reflexology, reflexology can relax a specific part of the body, help the body reach balance -- or homeostasis -- help maintain good health and develop the body's self-corrective mechanisms by increasing the healing activity of the various bodily systems. These include the nervous, digestive and endocrine systems.
Evidence
Reflexology is generally useful for relaxation and stress relief. According to the American Cancer Society, current scientific evidence does not support any claims that reflexology can cure disease, although treatments may help reduce pain and anxiety in some people.
Method
Each practitioner has her own idea about which foot should be the first to receive treatment. Some reflexologists begin treatments for women on the left foot because some practitioners believe the left side of the body is associated with the feminine, intuitive side of the brain. These practitioners start on the right foot for treatments for men, as the right side of the brain is associated with the masculine, logical side of the body, according to reflexology teachers Vicki Pitman and Kay MacKenzie in their book, "Reflexology: A Practical Approach." Which foot you decide to start with depends on your preference and beliefs. The foot is then massaged with varying degrees of pressure, and focus is placed on zones corresponding to problematic parts of the body.
Side Effects
Most people generally report a sense of well-being and relaxation after a reflexology treatment. However, you may also experience lethargy, nausea or tearfulness. According to the Association of Reflexologists, this is a normal response to your body's natural healing process and should not be cause for concern or fear.
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