“Oh, my aching feet!”
Do your feet hurt? Are you tired of it? Reflexology can help you.
Yes, it is “foot massage” but there is a science and methodology behind it.
So what is reflexology exactly? Merriam-Webster defines it as “a method of relieving pain or curing illness by pressing on particular parts of a person’s hands or feet.”
Basically it breaks down like this.
Picture your feet as a smaller image of your body.
The big toe is the head, the inside arch is the spine. Below the pinky toe is the shoulder area. The middle of the sole is the kidney point, usually sore for most people because of daily stress (adrenal glands sit above the kidneys and pump out stress hormones).
Take a look at the illustration below.
This is all based on the principle that reflex points in the feet reflect tension found in that zone of the body. By pressing these points, tension is relieved, circulation and organ function improved.
Reflex points are also found on the hands and ears, but usually most reflexology treatments are focused on the feet.
So where did the knowledge of these points and zones come from?
Historical evidence points to a form or reflexology being practiced in early China and Egypt.
This wall painting is from the Physicians Tomb at Saqqara, Egypt.
It dates to around 2,330BC.The earliest known reference to Reflexology.
In the early 20th century William Fitzgerald, MD, developed a process named “zone therapy.” He stated that gentle pressure on a particular area of the foot would generate relief in the targeted zone.
Dr. Fitzgerald’s work was expanded by Eunice Ingham, a nurse and physiotherapist. Ingham changed the name of zone therapy to reflexology and mapped out certain points. She travelled around the country teaching and promoting reflexology, raising awareness and creating a community of practitioners.
Reflexology has many benefits:
- Stress Reduction
- Improved Circulation
- Detoxification
- Pain Relief
- Improved Organ Function
- Decreased Anxiety
- Relaxation
“Several studies funded by the National Cancer Institute and the National Institutes of Health indicate that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as anxiety and depression, and enhance relaxation and sleep,” writes Brent A. Bauer, M.D., of the Mayo Clinic.
Reflexology can be done on just about anyone. It’s a safe treatment with very few side effects.
Sessions are usually 30 minutes to an hour. You can either receive the treatment clothed, seated in a chair, or on the massage table as a component of the massage treatment.
Reflexology treatments can be combined with a foot soak and scrub for added relaxation.
“Studies also show that reflexology may have benefits in palliative care of people with cancer,” says Dr. Bauer.
If you are receiving chemotherapy, reflexology is usually a safe treatment, but check with your doctor first.
There are certain conditions in which reflexology is not recommended: gout, kidney disease or open sores.
It’s a good idea to drink lots of water after your treatment to help the detoxification.
Many people say that their feet feel lighter after reflexology and they feel like they’re “walking on air.”
You can do something about your aching feet.
Call Woodstown Massage Boutique and book your Reflexology Treatment today!
