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Reflexology is a focused pressure technique, usually directed at the feet or hands. It is based on the premise that there are zones and reflexes on different parts of the body which corresponds to and are relative to all parts, glands and organs of the entire body.How Does It Work? When the reflexes are stimulated, the body's natural electrical energy works along the nervous system to clear any blockages in the corresponding zones. A reflexology session seems to break up deposits (felt as a sandy or gritty area under the skin) which may interfere with this natural flow of the body's energy. Manipulating specific reflexes removes stress, activating a parasympathetic response in the body to enable the disharmonies to be released by a physiological change in the body. With stress removed and circulation improved, the body is allowed to return to a state of homeostasis (a steady state in the internal environment of the body). What Are The Benefits? Reflexology demonstrates four (4) main benefits:
All types of people, of all ages, seek reflexology treatments. These people are usually health conscious and wish to explore health alternatives. The vast majority of clients usually realize the benefits of reducing stress from a reflexology session which in turn minimizes physical symptoms. Reflexology may be performed on everyone, from the newborn to the elderly. It can be used for a general "tune-up" or for an unhealthy body. It can be used throughout pregnancy, or pre surgically and post surgically. In all cases, common sense should be used in selecting this therapy. What does this mean? One example might be that women, in the first trimester of a high-risk pregnancy, might avoid any or all alternative therapies as instructed by their doctor or as they feel appropriate. The frequency of the client’s next visit(s) will be determined by the client based on their requirements and expectations. However, it is prudent to remember that undergoing any type of therapy provides little benefit after only one session. If a client really wishes to give reflexology a chance to work, more than one session is usually advisable. A complete session on both feet is always performed. Depending upon the reflexologist's level of experience and the client's requirements, sessions will last between 45 to 60 minutes. 
Pressure During a SessionReflexes are worked according to the body’s requirements. Stress removal is the first priority; followed by enhanced circulation with attention paid to reflexes relative to the body requirements. Common sense dictates when less pressure is required. A firm pressure is used when working the reflexes of the feet. A reflexologist works within the pain threshold of the client. As an indicator, a reflexologist uses a scale from 1 to 5, with 1 being sensitive and 5 being painful. A client is encouraged to let their reflexologist know when something is painful. Reflexology is not meant to inflict pain. Therapy Setting The optimum location is a quiet, relaxing environment with the client comfortably seated. A recliner chair is most suitable as the reflexologist and the client can see eye-to-eye. In reality, reflexology can be administered anywhere - sitting up or lying down. Receiving the therapy when necessary is more important than waiting for optimum session conditions. Portions of the information contained in this article were reprinted with kind permission from the Ontario College of Reflexology. Please visit the Ontario College of Reflexology website for further information. contents of this article, are for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, nor a replacement for prescriptions, nor an endorsement of any specific type of treatment. Always seek medical advice for any health concerns from a qualified medical health care professional before using any recommendations and/or information contained in Nutter's articles. |
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