How Reflexology Works

What is foot reflexology and how does it work: Reflexology is a natural therapy that can be used for pain relief and relaxation.

© Sylvia Carlson

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What does sinus congestion have to do with my toes, and how can pressing on a reflex clear my sinuses or make the pain go away?

Understanding Reflexology

It's important to remember that a Reflexologist cannot diagnose, prescribe, treat a specific illness, or cure your condition. What they can do, is help to relax your body, decrease pain, improve circulation, improve elimination, and provide a simple way to bring your body back into balance again. In essence, you will feel better. I have yet to meet anyone who has not had a positive experience having a foot reflexology session.

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a simple, non-invasive method to help balance the body. It has been described as a natural therapy that requires the application of a specific type of pressure on particular areas of the feet. It is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet which correspond to every part of the body.

Pain Relief and Foot Reflexes

You can notice profound relaxation and pain relief through the simple application of applying pressure to certain reflexes in the foot. Anything from stress,headaches to back pain or sinus congestion can be relieved by this technique. There are several reflexes around the toes that relate to the nasal and sinus area of the head. To relieve sinus congestion, for example, several reflexes around the toes are manipulated in order to drain the sinus passages and to relieve the pressure in your ears.

Is Reflexology a form of Massage?

Reflexology is not massage, as there is no rubbing except perhaps at the end of a session. A foot massage simply aids overall relaxation. Massage uses oils and creams/lotions, where reflexology is applied on a dry foot. The reflexology technique is one that looks more like an inch worm movement of the thumb and fingers, as well as localized pressure over specific areas of the foot.

Does Reflexology Hurt?

When there is tenderness or sensitivity in a particular area, your Reflexologist will make note of this as it is an indication that more work is needed in this part of your foot. Gradually, as the Reflexologist works the area, the sensitivity will diminish and the related part of your body should also feel better. So, for example, if you have a tender spot on your big toe relating to your neck, the Reflexologist will apply pressure to this area to ease the tension in your neck.

Reflexology is a natural therapy that can be used for pain relief and relaxation.

© Copyright, Sylvia Carlson 2006. Reproduction without permission prohibited.

MASSAGE THERAPY ARTICLES

Related articles:

1. Foot Reflexology Basics

2. Stories Your Feet Tell

3. Reflexology Contraindications


The copyright of the article How Reflexology Works in Reflexology is owned by Sylvia Carlson. Permission to republish How Reflexology Works must be granted by the author in writing.




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