So Just What Is Reflexology All About

So Just What Is Reflexology All About? Reflexology is when nerves are stimulated on three different body parts: the feet, hands and sometimes the ears. The stimulation is done by applying pressure and by massage.

The purpose is to cause any blocked energy to release from the body. It is a practice that is natural and promotes self-healing within the body. Those who practice reflexology believe that we have areas of the foot and hands that correspond to other areas of the body and when pressed, or massaged they can have an effect on the body part that they correspond with.

There are two main theories about reflexology, the nervous system and the Qi theories.

The nervous system theory the reason reflexologist can relieve stress is because they apply a pressure and massage technique to the over 7200 nerves that are located in our feet. It is much like a telegraph signal traveling from the area being pressed on the foot that creates a release of a "message" that follows the path from the area being pressed or massaged to the corresponding area of the body.

The nerves are all part of our central nervous system and they travel to the brain relaying messages and then going on to the body part that it corresponds to and delivers energy and oxygen, which are needed for healing and well-being.

Then there is the Qi theory or otherwise known as the "life force" explanation about how healing is obtained through the flow of energy. This flow of energy can release blockages of energy.

The reflexology therapist will use hands to massage areas of the feet and hands in a precise manner that will open any "imperfections" that may be present.

Others believe that reflexology releases natural painkillers that the body uses called "endorphins". The practice of reflexology involves a therapist applying an exact pressure to a particular area of the foot or hand, or a stretch or a movement that will have an effect on a corresponding body part.

They believe that manipulating the feet and hands they can relieve stress on other body parts because of the connection between them. 

Quick Reflexology Fact If you want to go the free route, learning the simple massage techniques is all you will have to do, outside of applying it. Each part of your feet and hands relates to a body system. By applying pressure and massage to those areas, you will increase blood flow and help push toxins out of the body. One of the major benefits here is that it is relaxing Reflexology is practiced by individuals, those who practice cosmetology, nurses and doctors in China. There are fulltime professional reflexology therapists and families who continue the care of reflexology at home.   Most professional sessions last around 30 minutes but practicing it at home should take roughly 5 minutes, 6 days a week for maximum benefit.   You can believe in the theories about reflexology, Oi, Meridians and so on, or you can have a reflexology treatment simply as a relaxing form of foot massage. Either way it will make you feel better. The benefits of reflexology are that it is good for stress release. Those who practice it professionally will have clients either sit in a chair or lie on a table.   Clients keep their clothes on but do remove their shoes and socks. Most therapists will do the massage, pressure or movements without oil, which is often called a "dry technique", though some do use oil.   The client should feel comfortable at all times during the session. Reflexology Facts Today 02/06/2012 Rockford athletes in action: Women's basketball These college athletes, all with local high-school ties, are scheduled to compete this week in the following events. Rockford athletes in action: Women's basketball 02/07/2012 Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley Some lingering flurries are likely through today with highs around 32. Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley 02/07/2012 Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley Some lingering flurries are likely through today with highs around 32. Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley 02/06/2012 Living skills for single mums THE opening of a foot massage and reflexology kiosk in Kempas Mart here since last July has helped five single mothers acquire a new skill which improved their standard of living. Living skills for single mums 02/06/2012 Springfield Zoning Hearing Board continues hearing for acupuncture center SPRINGFIELD -- Despite more than an hour of testimony, Jan. 26, the Springfield Zoning Board voted to continue the hearing regarding a request to open an acupuncture/reflexology center in Springfield Mall. The property, 1250 Baltimore Pike, is zoned “SC-1” Shopping Center District. Springfield Zoning Hearing Board continues hearing for acupuncture center 02/07/2012 Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley Some lingering flurries are likely through today with highs around 32. Colder snap comes through Rock River Valley 02/06/2012 Chicago cabbie pleads guilty in terror case CHICAGO — A Pakistani-born Chicago taxi driver has pleaded guilty to attempting to provide material support to al-Qaida as part of a plea deal hammered out recently with prosecutors. Chicago cabbie pleads guilty in terror case