Reflexology massage

Reflexology is a natural therapy which has been used for thousands of years, all around the world. It has evolved through time and was made widely available to Western societies in the 20th century by Dr Fitzgerald and Eunice Ingham.

It is generally practiced on feet and hands. Foot Reflexology is based on the theory that all body parts, organs and glands are associated with specific areas, called reflex zones, in the feet. This is the reason why the foot is often called a "map" of the human body.

By pressing on a specific reflex zone or point on the foot, it is possible to have an impact on the corresponding organ without touching it directly.

The feet contain more than 7000 nerve endings in the feet, so it is not surprising that manipulating and massaging the feet can help reduce tensions and stress in the body and therefore restore balance.

Reflexology is a holistic therapy so not only does it treat symptoms but also the causes of symptoms. If you visit a practitioner, he will ask you many questions about your lifestyle and your health before starting the reflexology treatment. This information will help him to focus his work on specific reflex zones to clear blockage and bring back harmony.

Although reflexology is a safe and relaxing experience to be enjoyed by people of all ages, there are a few contra-indications to be respected: anyone with recent heart problems, foot injuries, insulin dependent diabetes, deep vein thrombosis should not receive a reflexology treatment or should at least first check with their doctor.

There are many reasons for using reflexology to stimulate the energy flow and treat ailments. Here are some of the benefits of reflexology:

• relaxation to reduce stress as it causes many physical and psychological dysfunctions
• improving the blood and lymphatic circulation,
• cleansing toxins, stimulation of the nervous system
• enhancing healing and reducing recovery time
• stimulating metabolism, relieving digestive difficulties
• prevention and reduction of many functional disorders. The body can recover its natural harmony and balance
• increasing mental and physical well being.

Before the actual start of the reflexology treatment, the practitioner will relax your feet with some relaxation movements. These relaxation movements are also useful to get to know you, see how you react and ascertain your level of stress. Some people are very tense and find it difficult to relax and let go, so this first part of the session is intended to put them at ease.

This is an example of a movement used during the warm-up stage, it works the spine reflex zone so great for reducing tension in the back. Try it yourself !

Basically, place both hands over the inside edge of the foot, with your index fingers touching each other, and position your thumbs underneath the foot, touching the sole. Your hands should be close to the ankle and will gradually slide down towards the toes.

First, don't move the hand closest to the ankle. It's the other hand that rotates the foot forward and backwards 5 or 6 times. Imagine you try to unscrew a cap in both directions!

Then, move both hands down 1cm and repeat the rotation. Continue until you reach the big toe, then change foot.

Reflexology practitioners are trained in anatomy and reflex zone theory as well as reflexology techniques. They are therefore able to adapt the treatment to your individual needs and bring much relief from pain or discomfort. Each country has its own recognised qualifications and awarding bodies. If you wish to follow a reflexology treatment, you should check whether the practitioner is qualified and whether the awarding body is genuine.

You can also get a step by step manual to learn and practice this natural therapy at home for the well-being of your family. In fact, reflexology massage can help you to better bond with your children and improve their health. Self-help also reduces stress and therefore improves well-being.