The theory behind reflexology is that all areas of your body ‘s organs and systems correspond to certain points on the foot, hands and ears. Pressure applied to these points is believed to bring relaxation and healing to the corresponding area of the body.

By applying various amounts of pressure to these points, it is believed that natural healing to the specific areas of your body is experienced. There have been numerous studies that have shown how reflexology has reduced pain, enhanced relaxation and sleep as well as helped some psychological symptoms such as stress and anxiety. People who practise this technique, are called reflexologists.

Due to the fact that reflexology is non-invasive and generally considered low risk, many opt for this natural way of healing as opposed to many other known treatments.

How does reflexology work?

Traditional Chinese medicine brought reflexology to life, with the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”) which means “vital energy”. They believe that this energy flows through your body, and when a person is stressed, their body blocks the qi. This can therefore cause an imbalance in the body which ultimately leads to illness. By performing reflexology, the qi or vital flow of energy is restored, keeping the body free of illness and diseases.

Reflexologists are able to map out certain points of the body in the feet, hands and ears. By applying pressure to these corresponding points, it sends energy flow through the body until it reaches the areas affected. Often, massage oils are used to move around the feet more easily.

However, in the 1890’s, British scientists found that nerves connect the skin and internal organs. They also found that the entire nervous system of the body tends to respond to outside factors, including touch and pressure. Just as many massage methods assist with relaxation, so does reflexology. Your brain is trained to respond to physical pain as one type of experience, but it can also respond to positive, calming touch, as something more enjoyable and can therefore improve your mood and in doing so, reduce stress.

What are the benefits of reflexology?

There are many benefits linked to reflexology. Whilst  it may not be scientifically proven medical treatment for disease, studies suggest that it can be extremely helpful as a complimentary treatment, especially with stress and anxiety. Here are the main benefits of reflexology:

Stress and anxiety

In a study conducted in 2000, researchers tested people receiving treatment for lung or breast cancer. Those who received reflexology reported lower levels of anxiety than those who did not receive reflexology treatment. Whilst being touched by another human being in a calm and relaxing manner is generally an anxiety-reducing response for most people, it could also be attributed to the effects of reflexology.

Promotes stimulation of the nervous system

Reflexology allows the opening of the neural pathways which benefits out central nervous system in many different ways. The brain is able to handle inputs more effectively, which essentially speeds up cognitive strength. In turn, this increases the speed of physical reactions, which boosts your memory. This means that the entire brain is able to work faster and more efficiently.

Relieves Migraines and Headaches

As reflexology increases the overall blood flow in the body, it can help to reduce the severity of headaches and migraines. It can therefore also relieve muscle tension. Since stress is often the cause of headaches, reflexology is a great choice for those who suffer regularly and are in search of a more natural remedy.

Increases energy levels

As reflexology is known to align the functions of the organs and systems, it has the potential to increase the metabolism and energy creation. In saying this, reflexology can help to give you more energy for the body and mind.

Eliminates toxins in the body

As we have mentioned previously, reflexology increases the body’s circulatory system. As a result, it can also improve the bladder function, reducing the possibility of urinary tract infections and similar issues. Your bladder then becomes a more efficient system of eliminating toxins and other foreign elements, protecting your body from health conditions that can come from a compromised urinary system.

Reduces menstruation and pregnancy symptoms

Reflexology can be very helpful for women. Particularly for those who suffer from painful menstruations and labour. Reflexology has been shown to reduce the need for pain medication during labour, and could even assist with recovery time, postpartum, including a reduction of post-partum depression. This is because it aids the body in healing itself=, allowing it to get back to its normal metabolic state, a lot sooner.  

Some reflexology experts have even claimed to help with ovulation and menstruation cycle problems, and the rebalancing of hormones thus assisting with fertility.

But is it safe?

Reflexology is extremely safe, as it is non-invasive and relatively comfortable to receive, even for those living with serious health conditions. As a natural way of healing, or at least aiding symptoms associated with major illnesses and diseases, reflexology is worth a try. As with most treatments, it is not for everyone, but could assist with many health issues.

Some people have reported having mild side effects which include light-headedness, tender feet or even emotional sensitivity, but these are short-lived and tend to go away shortly after treatment.

If however you are suffering from a serious illness or have an underlying condition, it may be worth your while to check with your doctor, whether reflexology is a viable option for you.