What Are The Benefits Of Reflexology?

Reflexology may seem like a relatively new practice, but the treatment has been around for over a century. Quite simply, reflexology is the term given to the application of pressure onto the feet that is usually relaxing and can help alleviate ailment pain.

What is reflexology?

The holistic practice of reflexology involves putting pressure on the feet in specific areas that correspond to different parts internally in the body. 

The hands and feet absorb most of the pressure and stress from daily activities. They are particularly sensitive because they contain so many more nerves than other parts of the body. 

Is it just a massage?

Reflexology is not just a massage. The theory behind reflexology is that each pressure point on the foot corresponds with another part of the body or organ. It is used to induce healing and relaxation in certain parts of the body that need treatment.

A massage differs from reflexology in the sense that whilst massage works with the structure of the human body, reflexology seeks to improve the function of glands, systems and organs. 

Reflexology works by promoting a response from the soft tissue via the nervous system. Whereas in massage therapy, the treatment benefits the whole outer body, reflexology can really help with specific areas of concern by honing in on one particular problem area.

What does reflexology treat?

Reflexology can treat a variety of ailments, and it is a non-invasive treatment where the client’s clothes do not have to be removed in the process. Reflexology is also popular amongst cancer patients to alleviate symptoms of chemotherapy. 

In a survey of 170 studies, the results reflected that the majority of those having reflexology treatments noticed an improvement in their physical and mental health. There is some evidence to suggest that reflexology can relieve pain, and other benefits include:

• Blood flow to the feet, brain, kidneys and intestines increased. 
• Reduction in depression.
• Improve symptoms of nausea, vomiting and anxiety experienced by chemotherapy patients.

Although there are no concrete studies to what extent reflexology can cure or prevent any type of disease, it is a popular complementary therapy that breaks up the stress signals in the body and balances out the body’s equilibrium.

Does it work?

There are a number of theories as to how reflexology works, one of which is that the nervous system responds to external stimuli. Another theory is that reflexology reduces the patient’s experience of pain by making them more relaxed. 

Reflexology makes most patients feel better by alleviating stress, and as a result your body begins to work better. Reflexology is a relaxation technique above all else. And by relieving stress, patients can better manage their conditions.

Why is reflexology so popular?

Reflexology is not a cure for disease, but it is a useful therapy that can help relieve symptoms of illness and ailments. Reflexology is low risk, so it can be a useful option if you’re seeking stress relief and relaxation.

Much like acupuncture and acupressure, reflexologists connect points on your foot to internal areas. And whilst reflexologists do use their hands, unlike massage they do not specialise in the whole external body.

Many patients have experienced positive results such as a swift recovery after illness and improved mood.

Why you should consider reflexology

Reflexology is a popular complementary therapy that’s best used alongside traditional medicine.

If you have ailments or ill health, reflexology is a non-invasive, low risk option to try out. Even if you are not seeking reflexology for physical symptom relief, it can be effective at relieving stress and anxiety too.