Aromatherapy and reflexology are complementary therapies. Aromatherapy is the application of essential oils, whereas reflexology aims to balance the "energies" of the body through the application of pressure on various points on the feet or hands. Use aromatherapy and reflexology separately or together. Consult a qualified aromatherapist or reflexologist before using either therapy, if inexperienced in using either aromatherapy or reflexology.
About Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy is the use of essential oils for therapeutic purposes. Essential oils are extracted from many different parts of plants, including flowers, tree bark, leaves, grasses, roots and seeds. The oil is located in the sacs, glands or hairs of a plant and is extracted in a number of ways, depending on the plant species. Essential oils are applied through a carrier base of massage oils, body lotions, bath oils, hot and cold compresses, shampoos or through the simple inhalation of an oil, according to Julia Lawless in her book "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils."
About Reflexology
Reflexology is the name given to the process of the application of pressure on various points of the feet or hands in order to correct "imbalances" within the body. Through the development of zone therapy--introduced by Dr. William Fitzgerald in 1913 and progressed to its current form by Eunice Ingham--reflexology works on the theory that the body can be divided into a number of zones that relate to corresponding parts of the body.
When pressure is applied on a point on the feet or hands, it can produce an effect in another part of the body. Nicola Hall, in her book "Reflexology: A Way to Better Health," says the hands can be worked on in reflexology when it's not possible to work on the feet. Although the feet are more sensitive and responsive to reflexology, the hands respond in the same way over time.
Benefits of Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy has the power to help in the healing of a number of problems, depending on the essential oil used. Some of the problems aromatherapy can help with are stress, anxiety, skin problems, digestive problems, depression, muscular pain, colds, flu, respiratory problems and women's problems such as PMS and menopause. Following the guidelines of an aromatherapist, aromatherapy is easy to apply and use at home.
Benefits of Reflexology
Reflexology is an extremely relaxing therapy that can help reduce stress, pain and improve blood flow. It's also helpful in relieving many other conditions such as arthritis, PMS, depression and asthma. With the advice of a reflexologist, reflexology can be practiced on yourself at home. It doesn't involve getting undressed, as in massage, or applying oils. Reflexology can be practiced almost anywhere.
Aromatherapy and Reflexology
Aromatherapy, like reflexology, can be practiced with ease at home. However, the full benefits of reflexology are experienced through the practice of another. Reflexology doesn't involve the application of oils, as aromatherapy does. However, you can combine aromatherapy and reflexology for greater effect. Apply essential oils to reflex points on the feet or hands, in a blend with a carrier oil, to experience the full benefits of both of these therapies.
References
- "Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julia Lawless; 1995
- "Reflexology A Way to Better Health"; Nicola Hall; 2000
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