Kivivi Blog

October 9, 2009

Reflexology — Much More Than Just a Foot Massage

Originally known as zone or reflex therapy, Reflexology is a holistic healing method that assists the healing of the body through the use of therapeutic pressure and massage of the reflex points found on the feet and the hands. There is evidence that the art and science of Reflexology was used by the ancient Egyptians, Japanese, and Indian cultures as a tool to encourage and facilitate excellent health. Reflexology teaches that one’s vital energy circulates throughout the body, permeating every living cell and tissue. If the energy becomes blocked or congested the part of the body relating to the blockage is affected. Reflex points, particularly those in the feet, correspond to various organ systems and tissues. Upon stimulating and releasing the reflex points in a precise manner, life force circulation is restored and the body can heal itself naturally.

A method for ‘activating the healing powers of the body’, modern Reflexology is both a science and an art. As a science, it requires careful study, practice, technical knowledge, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology works best when the therapist works with patience, dedication, intention, and (most importantly) loving care. Frequently, therapeutic grade essential oils are used on the reflex points — however Reflexology is not a ‘foot massage’. Reflexology does not diagnose or treat specific diseases. Though when combined with sound healing practices, reflexology can facilitate the body’s strong natural impulse towards health and well-being.

Feet First: Healing Through Reflexology

After a long day, you may enjoy the sensual pleasure of a foot massage. Now kick that up a notch. Imagine someone applying gentle pressure to selected spots on each foot. Each area of the foot is connected through nerve-ways to another part of your body. You start to feel a warm, tingly surge of energy through your body. You are totally relaxed.

This is the goal of reflexology, a technique used to relieve stress and promote health by targeting reflex points in your feet. Each reflex point is believed to be linked by nerve-ways to a specific organ or body part. It's thought that stimulating these reflex points can promote healing and improve circulation. Sometimes, reflex points on your hands or ears are used, too.

Some research suggests that reflexology can help to relieve pain, anxiety and other symptoms. Larger clinical studies are needed to confirm this.

Everything About Reflexology Massage

Reflexology or zone therapy is another traditional massage technique. Reflexology can be traced back to the ancient Egyptians. It works by massaging specific areas of the hands and feet. These areas of the hands and feet are believed to be connected to vital organs throughout the body. This is to help in relieving tension and stiffness in the body. Many practitioners differ on their approaches to reflexology and there can be vast differences between them.

Although many practitioners Gary and the application of reflexology massage, there are some commonalities. Most practitioners agree that massage target specific points and the hands and feet. When the specific points are stimulated, they are connected to other vital organs which helps them to relax. Western science has not validated these claims, but that is not to say they aren’t valid.

What You Want to Know About Reflexology Massage

Reflexology is another type of massage which is supposed to relieve tension in the body. Another name for reflexology is zone therapy. Reflexology is more focused on the hands and feet. It is believed that by massaging certain points on the hands and feet that it will induce relaxation to other parts of the body. There is no unified theory of reflexology massage so there are different practitioners work reflexology massage and different ways.

But fear not, there is some common ground in the reflexology world. Reflexology targets specific points of the hands and feet. Massage movements stimulate specific reflexology points that are supposed to be connected to other organs within the body. Although reflexology has been around for centuries, no clinical studies have been performed to validate the benefits of this type of massage.

How to Restore Your Body Balance With Reflexology

Reflexology is a natural approach to rebalancing the body and encouraging its internal healing processes. It is a complementary therapy and is frequently used in conjunction with other modalities. It should not be used as a replacement for seeking medical attention for acute or serious illnesses.
The term “reflexology” arises from the stimulation of reflex points on the hands, feet and ears. The body’s natural flow of energy, known as “Qi” becomes blocked due to stressors or imbalances, and by relieving that blockage through stimulation of the nerves, freeing the points of reflexology can restore the unimpeded flow of energy through the organs and systems of the body.

The stimulation of the nerves, accomplished by the placement of pressure on certain points, sends signals through the body that can increase circulation, release endorphins or other chemicals, and balance the nervous system. This opens up the energy flow in the body. Pressure is applied by manipulating parts of the extremities through massage, squeezing, or pushing. There are also special techniques for the use of thumb, fingers or hands.

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Reflexology

Reflexology — Much More Than Just a Foot Massage

Feet First: Healing Through Reflexology

Everything About Reflexology Massage

What You Want to Know About Reflexology Massage

How to Restore Your Body Balance With Reflexology