Reflexology treatment is based on the concept that certain areas of the feet are linked to organs and systems in the body.
Reflexologists believe that by applying pressure on those points, patients can find relief from physical and emotional discomfort.
When evaluating how effective is reflexology, it’s important to understand how it works to heal the body.
Reflexology works by eradicating stress and helping the body to achieve a state of deep relaxation. It is within this enhanced state of relaxation that reflexologists believe the body can heal itself of the ailments that have been inflicted upon it. In other words, reflexology can help to encourage the body’s self-healing capabilities.
Several studies have shown that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as stress and anxiety, as well as enhancing relaxation and sleep.
Reflexology is a low risk option for stress relief and relaxation.
Reflexology is a centuries old healing treatment based on the theory that every area of the foot corresponds to organs and systems in the body. Trained reflexologists apply pressure to these areas on the foot to stimulate healing and balance.
What Conditions Can Reflexology Help?
People seek reflexology treatment to help with a wide range of physical and emotional conditions. The most common reasons for visiting a reflexologist can include:
- Stress, anxiety and stress-related conditions
- Digestive disorders
- Headaches, migraines and muscle tension
- Arthritis
- Insomnia or sleeping difficulties
- Hormonal imbalances
- Sports/ exercise injuries
- Premenstrual tension
- Back, shoulder and neck pain
Reflexology is believed to encourage relaxation in the body, improve blood circulation, reduce aches and pains and help to promote overall healing.
Reflexology treatment is sometimes also used for post-operative or palliative care. It’s important to remember, however, that although reflexology is a popular alternative therapy it should not replace medical diagnoses and treatment. Reflexology cannot diagnose disease but it aims to bring the body to a state of healing, also known as homeostasis, in which the body can begin to recover, heal and recuperate.
Reflexology offers a very relaxing experience for the majority of people. It does not hurt and most people feel calm and de-stressed after treatment.
As a reflexology foot massage is extremely effective, most people feel refreshed following a visit to a reflexologist. Rarely, some people may feel nauseous or tearful after treatment but these symptoms are always temporary and are often considered to be part of the bigger healing process.
Reflexology is not the latest health-fad filling up the pages of lifestyle magazines or dominating the news headlines and as reflexology is not cemented in modern science, some people are naturally suspicious of the health benefits it offers.
By educating ourselves on alternative therapies and understanding how they can work alongside mainstream treatment, we can arm ourselves with more power to make positive decisions regarding our health. Knowledge is a great tool to have.
