MODALITY SERIES - Reflexology
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to traditionally the feet, hands and ears, but also has areas all over the body with specific thumb, finger, and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion.
It is based on a pseudoscientific system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work affects a physical change to the body. (Wiki) Although it is considered pseudoscientific, many people find they receive real and therapeutic benefits.
What I find personally interesting is, I usually leave the feet for the end of the massage, for a couple of reasons. One main reason is I like to assess the body first, see what areas have the most tension or are imbalanced, then check again with the feet. 9 times out of 10 the area in which there are complaints from the client OR I find during the massage, I find overall tense on the points that correlate on the foot. (Or hand if you are using hand reflexology.)
So, although there are not any conclusive “studies” done, with a control, it’s interesting how the body tells you what’s out of whack in multiple areas with multiple alarm bells.
How is Reflexology performed, and how does it affect the body?
Typically it is performed on the feet and hands, with no lotion. The tips of the thumbs are used to “inch-worm” along specific areas to increase stimulation in a particular organ or part of the body. It can be performed with you fully clothed in a lone session, or as an enhancement during a massage.
What does Reflexology help with?
So far, there’s limited evidence that reflexology may help to:
reduce stress and anxiety
reduce pain
lift mood
improve general well-being
In addition, people have reported that reflexology helped them:
boost their immune system
get over colds and bacterial infections
clear up sinus issues
recover from back problems
correct hormonal imbalances
boost fertility
improve digestion
ease arthritis pain
treat nerve problems and numbness from cancer drugs (peripheral neuropathy)
How does Reflexology feel?
It feels relaxing, not quite like a foot massage. Some sense a feeling of "lightness" or tingling in the body, as well as feelings of warmth, a sense of "opening,"
What should I expect after a session?
You might feel light-headed, emotions that you might have been holding back, tiredness, and relaxed. Some people experience these things, some don’t. You might have other reactions but they are all normal.
When should I not receive Reflexology?
Generally, reflexology is very safe, even for people living with serious health conditions. It’s noninvasive and comfortable to receive, so it may be worth trying if it’s something you’re interested in.
However, you should talk to your doctor first if you have any of the following health issues:
circulatory problems in the feet
blood clots or inflammation of your leg veins
gout
foot ulcers
fungal infections, like athlete’s foot
open wounds on your hands or feet
thyroid problems
epilepsy
a low platelet count or other blood problems, which can make you bruise and bleed more easily
You may still be able to try reflexology if you have any of these issues, but you might need to take a few precautions to avoid any adverse effects.
Warning
If you’re pregnant, make sure to tell your reflexologist before your session, as some pressure points in the hands and feet may induce contractions. If you’re trying to use reflexology to induce labor, only do so with your doctor’s approval. There is a risk of premature delivery, and babies are healthiest if born at 40 weeks of gestation.
ANY QUESTIONS? LEAVE IT IN A COMMENT DOWN BELOW!
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-is-reflexology#safety
https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/what-can-i-expect-first-reflexology-visit