Reflexology is a famous massage that originates from Asia. It is the process of application of some pressure to the feet, hands and ear areas. It is a relaxing process that can be used to alleviate stress. In most cases, reflexology is done on the feet areas. It is believed that every area of the foot corresponds to a particular area of the body. Hence, massage of the feet can easily stimulate the corresponding body part. Therefore, reflexology massage is just like a full body massage.
According to reflexologists, reflexology can be used to treat several illnesses such as diabetes, asthma, and cancer. Other medical conditions that can be treated using reflexology are stress, back pain, poor digestion, asthma, headache, anxiety, and period pain.
However, there is no scientific evidence that supports the claims. Reflexology is a safe process even though vigorous pressure applied during the process may cause discomfort to some people.
Reflexologists use foot charts to help them apply some pressures to particular feet areas. In some cases, they can use items such as sticks of wood, rubber balls, rubber bands and other items to help them carry out the process effectively. Practitioners of reflexology massage include massage therapists, physical therapists, and chiropractors among many others.
Benefits of reflexology
There are numerous benefits of reflexology. Some of the benefits include raising the energy level, improving the nerves system, increasing circulation and much more.
* Improve the nerve function – as human ages, the nerve endings become less sensitive in different parts of the body. Reflexology can be used to improve the function and reactive the nerve endings.
* Boosts energy level – reflexology can improve metabolism and boost energy level within the body. If you normally feel inactive after a long working day, a reflexology session can help a lot.
* Increases circulation – one known benefit of reflexology is improving circulation throughout the whole body. With proper circulation, blood and oxygen reach vital organs effectively.
* Relaxation – since reflexology is a nice way to open neural pathways, it is a great process that can keep your body in a good relaxation state. It is a therapy to cure sleep disorders.
* Eliminates toxins – reflexology therapy has shown to advance bladder function and reduce urinary tract issues. This means it can protect the body from several health conditions that generally occur from a compromised system.
* Reduce headaches – most people use reflexology to eliminate pain. You can use it to reduce the harshness of a headache or a migraine. A headache due to stress can be reduced through reflexology therapy as well.
* Speed healing – a mixture of increased circulation and nerve activity, and a well-functioning of metabolism can mean that body cells will grow faster and any wound will heal quickly. Besides, since reflexology reduces pain, patients can recover quickly.
Even though some studies have criticized reflexology, success reports and tradition can speak loudly than research. In some medical facilities, reflexology is considered an extra treatment for serious health conditions. However, this therapy might not be suitable for every person. It is therefore important to seek doctor’s advice before seeking reflexology.
