Reflexology is a type of massage that is designed to treat pain and tension based on reflex points on the hands, feet, and head. People who are experiencing generalized stress or discomfort in a particular part of the body often consider reflexology as an all-natural approach and alternative to taking medications undergoing treatments that carry risk of side serious effects.
How Does Reflexology Work?
This form of massage treatment focuses on nerve endings in the extremities that are linked to other parts of the body experiencing discomfort. For example, there are nerve endings in the little toe that are connected to the ear and ones in the balls of your feet that are connected to your lungs.
Some conditions are better treated by using reflexology on the feet, hands, ears, or a combination of the three. Reflexology works be targeting the central nervous system and stimulating relationships between it and your skin and internal organs. Medical studies have shown that this non-invasive practice can benefit the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, and immunebodily systems.
Benefits of Reflexology
These are some of the benefits that reflexology may be able to offer you:
- Restore bodily balance
- Release stress and tension
- Relieve and reduce pain
- Improve blood circulation
- Aid hormone balance and menstruation problems
- Prevent a variety of health conditions
What is Reflexology Foot Massage?
The feet contain many nerve endings that are connected to organ and muscle function in the body. Reflexology foot massage isn’t just performed as a treatment for pain and stress, but also as a preventative measure to keep future pain and stress at bay. Professional therapists who administer reflexology use various massage techniques including squeeze and release movements and pressure-point actions on parts of the soles of the feet.
What to Expect on Your First Visit
It’s normal to feel a little nervous on your first reflexology visit if you don’t know what to expect. However, the first thing that you’ll encounter is an intake session, in which you’ll provide details about your health history and medical concerns.
For a foot treatment, the therapist typically will ask you to remove your socks and shoes and then soak your feet in warm water. Most reflexology sessions last for 30 or 60 minutes, but make sure to tell your therapist about conditions that you suffer from so that targeted therapy can benefit you. Some people see results from weekly sessions to deal with specific illnesses or conditions.
Things to Consider before Reflexology Treatment
If you have any active injuries, such as a break or sprain, you may want to postpone reflexology treatments until your injuries have healed. You should also avoid reflexology when you have open wounds, burns, severe swelling, or recently had surgery.
If you have never had a treatment before, you may not know how your body will respond. Common reactions during a reflexology treatment include perspiration, feeling light-headed, feeling sleepy, having muscle contractions, coughing, or even laughing. You should feel comfortable asking questions and having a conversation with your therapist before, during, and after your treatment to put your mind and body at ease.