What is Reflexology?
You have all heard about it, but what is it? Reflexology is best described as compression massage and can be performed on the feet, hands or head.
Reflexology is drugless and is an excellent way to stimulate internal organs or muscles, thereby increasing circulation encouraging restoration of the bodies natural function.
Is it safe?
Reflexology is safe for children and the elderly. Even newborn babies respond well to Reflexology. It is extremely beneficial in pregnancy, alleviating morning sickness, tiredness and other common ailments associated with pregnancy. It can be extremely helpful in relaxing the terminally ill, helping them to cope with the emotional side of their illness and has also been known to assist with relieving pain. It can also be used alongside chemotherapy, helping the body to become more balanced. It is a myth that because Reflexology rids the body of toxins, chemotherapy will fail to work. The body will react to chemotherapy as it needs to and Reflexology will help to relax the client and assist in the healing process. Many hospitals now recommend Reflexology for
cancer patients. Indeed, some Reflexologists work in clinics at hospitals and hospices. Even those with ticklish feet will love Reflexology, as firm pressure is used. If there are any giggles, it will not be due to any ticklish spots
History of Reflexology:
Although there is evidence of North American Natives using pressure points on the feet, foot reflex therapy was not introduced to the Western World until the twentieth century. Europeans, as far back as the fourteenth century, performed versions of the Reflexology we know today.
How is Reflexology given?
With Reflexology, the client can sit in a chair or lay on a massage table. The practitioner uses various methods of thumb, finger and hand techniques to apply pressure to certain areas. I personally also use crystal wands to reduce fatigue on my own hands.
This massage and pressure stimulation improves nerve and blood supply and relaxes muscles helping to normalize various body functions.
Health Benefits of Reflexology:
It is a fact that 75% of our health problems can be linked to nervous stress. Reflexology alleviates tension by clearing crystalline deposits under the skin which impede the natural flow of the body’s energy. when these crystals are broken up the body begins to eliminate stored toxins that it was unable to previously process.
Crystalline’s are formed when, through lack of hydration and activity, the muscles begin to weaken and blood flow becomes stagnant. When blood flow stagnates, waste matter begins to deposit. These deposits start to solidify and become Crystalline, otherwise known as “Crunchies”.
Lack of the smooth flow of energy due to poor lifestyle habits, trauma, or genetics can result in urate crystals and calcium deposits accumulating at the neurological endings found in the foot. Thus, soreness in the reflex zones of the feet is understood to reflect imbalance in the corresponding organ, gland or structure of the body.
I hope you one day decide to try this wonderful healing modality.
Carol