What is REFLEXOLOGY?

Reflexology is a science that maps out the reflexes to the whole body on the feet, hands, or ears. By pressing these specific areas of the feet, hands, or ears, every organ, gland, muscle, and body part is affected. Techniques such as thumb walking, finger walking, hook and back up and rotations on a reflex are used. These hand techniques are unique to traditional Reflexology and are different from the motions used in other types of massage.

In addition to traditional Reflexology which relies on reflex points, modern Reflexologists also consider the foot as a foot. The health of one's feet is a big concern and foot assessments may be done and suggestions made as to the wearing of properly fitting shoes, foot strengthening exercises, referrals to other medical specialists such as podiatrists, etc., if necessary. Feet that are healthy and pain free are very important for one's overall well being and are an important consideration in Reflexology.

How Does REFLEXOLOGY Work?

There are many theories as to how and why Reflexology works. Some of the well established and researched reasons are as follows:

• Relaxation Response: This is well documented. When the body is in a relaxed state, many physiological changes take place in the body which are beneficial to good health. Stress reduction is what Reflexology does best.
• Endorphin Release: These chemicals are the body's natural pain killers. When one receives Reflexology, these "feel good" substances are released into the bloodstream and relief from pain can be obtained.
• Increased Circulation: Direct pressure on the feet and hands increases venous return or better blood flow. This tends to warm the extremities, helps nutrients get to the cells, and takes away waste products. It also moves more oxygen into the cells where it is needed.
• Direct Nerve Stimulation: Direct stimulation on the feet or hands puts pressure on the many thousands of nerve endings that reside there. This can benefit one's overall health.
• Benefit of Touch: Touch is a basic human need and being nurtured and touched increases one's sense of well being.

Most Common Benefits of REFLEXOLOGY

• Relieves many types of foot or hand pain.
• Decreases stress on emotional, physical, and mental levels.
• Increases circulation.
• Detoxifies body.
• Increases physical energy.
• Gives general sense of well being.
• Has the potential to change certain degenerative processes.

What to Expect in a Typical REFLEXOLOGY Session

• Sessions last about an hour.
• You will need to fill out a health history on your first appointment.
• Sometimes the entire session will be devoted to the feet; at other times it will be combined with work on the hands and ears.
• You will remove shoes and socks.
• A short foot/hand inspection may take place.
• You will either lie comfortably on a massage table or on a Reflexology lounge-type chair with feet elevated.
• Coconut oil is used to facilitate reflexology techniques.
• Initially, there is a foot soak to stimulate the reflexes.
• The practitioner will make every effort to work within the pain tolerance of the individual.
• Afterwards, a relaxed state is generally felt.
• Water intake should be increased after the session to facilitate detoxification.