Reflexology is a healing technique that relieves a person from several health issues and discomfort. Like other therapies, reflexology massage is complementary to medical treatments. When done by a skilled practitioner, reflexology allows one to feel a deep sense of therapeutic relaxation.
If you want to get rid of stress, anxiety, or physical and chronic pain, you must book yourself for a reflexology massage and experience the wonders of this therapy. In this blog, you’ll get insight into reflexology meaning, along with its proven benefits and treatment method.
Reflexology Meaning
Reflexology refers to a form of massage where pressure is applied to specific points along your feet, hands, and ears. The most common form of this therapy is foot reflexology. It involves applying pressure to different points on the bottom of the feet. Following are the two prevalent theories related to reflexology:
- Reflexology massage is based on the theory that body parts like feet, ears, and hands are connected to some of our organs.
- Reflexology focuses on how our body’s nervous system is connected. By applying pressure to the reflexology points, you can calm your central nervous system, promoting relaxation.
Benefits of Reflexology
Reflexology massage provides a holistic benefit to your health by improving the quality of living in various ways. Some studies have shown that reflexology can alleviate certain symptoms and encourage the well-being of a person. Following are some of the benefits associated with reflexology:
- Cures Anxiety and Stress
One of the key benefits of reflexology is that it reduces stress and anxiety. Reflexology helps in stress management by increasing blood flow through the body which helps to lower blood pressure. It can ease the anxiety of people suffering from cancer and heart disease. People undergoing major surgeries can also ease their anxiety by taking a reflexology massage session before their surgery.
- Manages Acute and Chronic Pain
Reflexology massage can help in pain management in the case of people with sinuses, arthritis, menstrual pain, and back pain. Therefore, it can cure both acute and chronic pain. Reflexology can also relieve post-surgery pain and discomfort. People who have undergone surgeries like kidney transplants, abdominal hysterectomies, and heart surgery can benefit from reflexology.
- Improves Digestion
There are certain reflexology points connected to organs related to digestion, including the stomach, small and large intestines, and liver. Feet reflexology massage may also improve digestion by helping clear toxins from the liver, remove a blockage in the colon, and boost blood supply to your digestive tract.
- Reduces Eye Strain
Reflexology massage can also ease age-related eye strain. Certain pressure points can help relax tight muscles effectively.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Going for Reflexology
Reflexology treatment is done by a professional reflexologist who knows the pressure points to cure different health issues. A reflexology session helps cleanse toxins and fluid from the body. It also enhances the immune system, allowing it to ward off autoimmune diseases. The following points must be kept in mind if you’re planning to take your first reflexology massage session:
- At the beginning of the session, the reflexologist may ask questions about your health, diet, lifestyle, and medical history. The reflexologist may gently begin massaging your preferred body part. Throughout the session, they might return to certain pressure points to generate an effective result. Reflexology treatment sessions usually last for 30 to 60 minutes.
- People experiencing physical pains like migraine, sinusitis, and joint problems are eligible for this treatment. Individuals performing heavy physical work can also find relaxation from the treatment. Reflexology treatment is not eligible for children below 15 years of age. Pregnant women should also avoid this treatment since it can result in certain complications.
- After the session, it is advisable to follow a healthy lifestyle supported by light meals and drinking sufficient amounts of water. Proper sleep is required after your reflexology session. One must avoid consuming alcohol to avoid any harmful side effects.
Conclusion
Reflexology is an effective health therapy that can work alongside conventional medication. After a reflexology session, you may feel a sense of relaxation. However, some people might experience transitory side effects like lethargy, nausea, light-headedness, and strong emotions. Avoid any kind of reflexology treatment if you have health issues like gout, foot ulcers, epilepsy, fungal infections, and circulatory problems in the feet.
