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This theory suggests that body parts can communicate using electromagnetic fields, which can become blocked or congested. Reflexology may open these blockages.
Reflexologists (people who practice this technique) often use relaxing music, lighting, and scents during sessions, which could help with relaxation and stress relief.
Reflexology is linked to many potential benefits, such as pain reduction, relaxation, mood elevation, and improvement in feelings of anxiety.
The hemodynamic theory proposes that stimulation from reflexology enhances blood flow to the corresponding organ or area of the body.
Another theory proposes that reflexology may influence changes in the fascia, which is a thin membrane that covers and separates body organs.
During a session, pressure and stimulation are applied to these points to improve blood and energy circulation.
Reflexology is thought to have few side effects, but they include light-headedness, tender feet, emotional response, and needing to urinate more often.
If you’re pregnant, make sure to tell your reflexologist before your session, as some points on your feet are believed to help induce labor.
Some believe that having the expectation of positive outcomes can indeed create positive outcomes, via the power of suggestion. This means that the positive results may not have occurred specifically due to the reflexology treatment itself.
The origins of reflexology date back to 2500 BCE in ancient Egypt. Evidence in historical documents suggests that reflexology may have been used, as it illustrates medical practitioners performing hand and foot treatments.
Reflexology is considered safe for most people. However, the biggest safety concern with it is the potential for its use in place of conventional treatments. Therefore, always talk to a medical professional.
While more research is needed into these theories, reflexology can still be suggested as a treatment in addition to conventional medical care. However, it shouldn't be used in place of conventional treatments.
Make sure to choose a reflexologist who is properly trained and qualified. If you notice any red flags or feel uncomfortable for any reason, it's okay to stop the session.
Sources: (Verywell Health) (Healthline)
See also: The mystical and powerful plants of ancient medicine
As stress and pain are linked to health problems, by alleviating these reflexology could indirectly lead to other health benefits.
In addition, people have reported that reflexology helped them clear sinus issues, ease arthritis pain, and improve digestion.
This theory suggests that the stimulation of specific reflex points enhances nervous system connection to the parts of the body that correspond to these points. It backs the idea that the benefits from reflexology stem from the involvement of the central and autonomic nervous systems.
If you experience any negative effects, talk to your reflexologist or healthcare provider if it lasts for a somewhat lengthy period of time.
Reflexologists use hands and feet maps that illustrate what points correspond to which areas of the body.
The exact reason as to why reflexology works hasn't yet been determined. However, there are some suggested theories.
During the session, the person can talk to the reflexologist about their worries, and work through personal challenges. This psychological support could prompt improvement in one's well-being.
Reflexology sessions typically last between 30 and 60 minutes. Clients remain fully clothed during treatments, except for the feet and lower legs. After sanitizing the feet, the reflexologist will then activate the reflex points on each side until the whole body has been treated.
Reflexology sessions involve touch, such as stroking and massaging, which has been shown to bring comfort and promote healing.
Some studies have found a couple of factors that may influence the effectiveness of reflexology.
Talk to your healthcare provider to ensure it's safe for you. Also, tell your reflexologist about any medical conditions you may have, and/or medications you're taking.
Whether or not reflexology techniques are directly responsible for results, they may be worth trying.
Reflexology may not be appropriate if certain conditions are present. These may include problems with feet circulation, inflammation or blood clots in the leg veins, fungal conditions, gout, or foot ulcers.
Support for reflexology largely comes from anecdotal sources, meaning people who say it helped them. The fact that many people seem to feel better after reflexology sessions certainly helps its case!
Stimulating these points gives a sense of relaxation. It also maintains homeostasis, which are bodily systems that remain stable as they adjust to changing conditions.
Typically, the feet are used in reflexology, but in some circumstances the hands or ears may be used as well.
Reflexology is a type of massage that's based on the premise that areas and organs in the body are linked to reflex areas on the hands, feet, and ears. The practice is considered a complementary therapy, meaning that it shouldn't replace conventional medical care. And while it still needs more scientific research to prove that it can prevent or cure any type of disease, some studies show it may help relieve certain symptoms, such as pain and anxiety.
Intrigued? Click on to learn more about how reflexology works and whether you should try it.
What’s reflexology, and how does it work?
Exploring the idea that certain parts of your feet are linked with different body parts
HEALTH Feet
Reflexology is a type of massage that's based on the premise that areas and organs in the body are linked to reflex areas on the hands, feet, and ears. The practice is considered a complementary therapy, meaning that it shouldn't replace conventional medical care. And while it still needs more scientific research to prove that it can prevent or cure any type of disease, some studies show it may help relieve certain symptoms, such as pain and anxiety.
Intrigued? Click on to learn more about how reflexology works and whether you should try it.