Reflexology
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is an ancient healing art based on the principles that there are reflexes in the hands and feet that correspond to every part, organ and gland in the body. By using acupressure and massage on the hands, feet, and sometimes ears, the client benefits from improved circulation, detoxification, reduced tension and the body's ability to heal itself.
What Conditions Does Reflexology Help?
Reflexology treatments can benefit not only clients who are suffering from short term illnesses but also those who are suffering from chronic diseases. People who are suffering from colds, flu and mild illnesses find that reflexology may prevent further progression or alleviate symptoms. Reflexology is also helpful for common childhood illnesses such as ear infections and colic. Additionally, stress and fatigue are lessened after reflexology treatments, and circulation is enhanced. Clients recovering from surgery have found reflexology helpful. Even women who have overdue pregnancies have benefited from reflexology treatments.
For clients undergoing cancer treatment, reflexology can help with unpleasant side effects. Even the terminally ill can be made more comfortable with reflexology through functional improvement of the organs of excretion: kidneys, intestines, skin and lungs; increased control of the bladder and bowels; and alleviation of pain, with the endorphin release experienced through the stimulation of all nerve endings on the bottom of the feet.
When Should Reflexology Not Be Used?
Although reflexology is very beneficial to many people, there are certain conditions in which reflexology is not advisable. Just like massage, infectious conditions, fever, or acute inflammations of the venous and lymphatic systems make reflexology treatment risky. Thrombosis, blood clots, are extremely dangerous in bodywork, since a dislodged clot could cause a stroke, heart, attack, or even death. Clients with advanced diabetes and osteoporosis should also not seek reflexology because foot manipulations and deep pressure might cause damage. Severe circulatory conditions, infections or sores on the feet, and atrophy (nonuse) also make reflexology inadvisable. Although pregnancy symptoms can be helped by reflexology, a client with an unstable pregnancy would find reflexology too stimulating and might begin labor or a miscarriage.
How Long Should a Reflexology Session Last?
An average session lasts about one hour. In an average session, about 45-50 minutes is spent on the feet, with 5-10 minutes on the hands. Treatment of the ears is optional.
How Often Should I Have Reflexology?
Usually reflexology sessions are scheduled once a week. In acute situations, reflexology may be performed every third day. Certain points can be worked daily.
What are Common Reactions to a Reflexology Treatment?
Reflexology effects are usually felt 24-48 hours after treatment. There are a variety of common reactions because the body is getting rid of the toxins: (1) increased urination (darker and stronger smelling than normal), (2) flatulence and more frequent bowel movements, (3) outbreak of sweat in the palms of the hands, feet or other areas of the body, (4) increased secretion of the mucous membranes, (5) increased vaginal secretions, (6) disrupted sleep patterns, tiredness, and feeling refreshed, relaxed and energetic.
What are Less Common Reactions to a Reflexology Treatment?
Less common reactions include (1) headaches, (2) dizziness, (3) emotional release, especially a tendency to weep, temporary outbreak of suppressed diseases, (4) aggravated skin conditions, and (5) chilliness and shivering.
What Should I Do to Enhance A Reflexology Treatment?
Increasing your water intake is always recommended with all bodywork. With reflexology, you should drink even more water because the increased water will hasten the toxins from exiting your body, and you will feel better more quickly.