Numerous individuals do not realize it, but reflexology is another form of massage albeit a very localized one to the feet. Reflexology is also incorporated into some other variations of massage including Thai massage, Shiatsu and other Ayurvedic massage techniques.
Basically, reflexology is the application of pressure and massage to small fields of the feet in order to affect other parts of the body, like say, the heart or other internal organs. Reflexologists think that all areas of the body have connections with the feet.
Reflexology sounds like a new, Third Age word, but reflexology is really an ancient art. Looking at ancient murals in burial chambers, it seems that reflexology was being carried out in Japan in 690 BC, in Egypt in 2330 BC and in China in 2704 BC.
And why ought it not to have been? There is nothing more natural than to fancy a foot rub if you have been standing on your feet all day. This might begin with washing the feet to remove dust, perspiration and foot odor; followed by the application of sweet-smelling oils or powders; followed my the rub.
As it works out, that is precisely the same sequence of events employed in reflexology. This process is sometimes applied to the hands as well and some people believe that it is relaxing on the ears as well, but this is not pure reflexology.
Reflexologists maintain that the feet are connected to each organ and part of the body, so they can manipulate the other parts from the feet without having to contact them – a bit like using a radio control handset.
They claim to be able to relieve digestive disorders, backache, menstrual problems, headaches and the like, because our stress levels are controlled by the tension in our feet, which may be caused by tension elsewhere in the body as well.
So, an instance may be: a bad back may cause the heel of your right foot to ache and if you can give up the heel of your right foot aching, your backache will disappear too. However, if you have any serious conditions, you ought to tell the reflexologist before he or she starts. Pregnancy is also something you ought to notify them about.
Not everyone in the Western world is convinced by the claims for reflexology in the same manner that they are not convinced about acupuncture, however it is not at all painful and is very soothing after standing up or walking all day.
Having said that, a soothing foot rub or massage does help get the blood flowing out of the feet and legs and back to the heart, so it is often used in hospitals for patients recuperating from operations and for those who have spent a long time in bed.
This form of massage is carried out fully clothed, except for shoes and socks, sitting in a comfortable seat and usually lasts 30-60 minutes. It is a firm favorite with women shoppers and shop assistants and fits into a lunch hour just nicely.
Owen Jones, the writer of this piece, writes on numerous subjects, but is currently involved with the massage therapy school online. If you have an interest in massage, please go over to our web site now at Classes For Massage Therapy
