Going to a spa to get a reflexology massage is one of the easiest things you can do to improve your sense of well-being. By targeting specific areas on your feet, a reflexologist facilitates proper energy flow throughout your body, which can allow healing on many different levels. A foot reflexology massage can relieve pain, ease tension and promote a more peaceful state of mind.
Background
The practice of reflexology dates all the way back to Cleopatra in ancient Egypt. It is believed that reflexology then began to spread throughout Europe via the Roman Empire. Therapeutic foot massage was performed in China as early as 2330 B.C. Nevertheless, reflexology did not appear in the United States until 1913, when it was introduced by Dr. William Fitzgerald as a pain reliever for surgery.
What to Expect
When getting a reflexology massage at a spa, the practitioner will usually ask you to lie down on a massage table, to further relaxation. You will remain clothed with only the feet and lower calves exposed. Relaxing music and dim lighting will most likely be part of the experience. The reflexologist may choose to utilize massage oils infused with essential oils. Rosemary oil may be used to stimulate circulation, or lavender for relaxation. A soothing salve such as tiger balm may be used on tight or sore areas. If you are pregnant, notify the reflexologist, as the use of essential oils is not recommended during pregnancy.
Stress Relief
One of the greatest uses of a reflexology foot massage is for stress relief. A trained practitioner at a spa will work specific points on the foot that will naturally release tension. As the points are held, natural feel-good endorphins are released into the bloodstream. Having a reflexology massage in a spa environment as opposed to a medical one may facilitate a higher level of relaxation in the patient.
Pain Relief
If you are having pain in a certain part of your body, notify the reflexologist so that she can work corresponding pressure points on your feet. For instance, people with chronic back pain may find relief by getting a reflexology foot massage regularly. The areas with pain are believed to be holding an energy block, which can be relieved through pressure applied to the feet. However, it should be noted that pain may be experienced in the initial treatments.
Research
A 2009 study by the University of Ulster in Ireland and published in the Sage Online Journal was conducted to determine if foot reflexology could help relieve chronic pain of multiple sclerosis patients. Using the Visual Analog Scale, the pain levels of patients were recorded before and after a 10-week series of reflexology treatments. A 50 percent decrease in pain levels was observed following treatment, with benefits lasting up to 12 weeks after the conclusion of the experiment. Patients also showed a significant decrease in levels of fatigue, depression, disability, spasms and overall quality of life.
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