If you’re contemplating booking a reflexology treatment, you may have lots of questions that need answering. Such as, what exactly is reflexology? What are the benefits? And why does everyone say it’s basically a glorified foot massage?
This article aims to give you some background on this holistic treatment and answer some of your more pressing concerns. And yes, there’s a lot more to reflexology than a simple foot massage.
So, what exactly is Reflexology?
Reflexology operates on the concept that each organ of your body has a corresponding pressure point on your foot. Practitioners believe that by applying the correct amount of pressure on the relevant point, a healing response can be triggered that can even alleviate certain ailments.
While some reflexologists also work on the hands and ears to trigger healing responses, most practitioners of this technique believe the kneading the soft fleshy ball of the foot, pulling on the toes, tracing around the heel and pushing deep into the arch are enough to treat your woes.
What you’ve described sounds like a foot massage with extra steps
The two treatments may sound similar and they both do offer benefits, but believe us when we say there are some key differences. Here’s an overview of what you can expect during a reflexology massage as opposed to a regular foot massage.
Reflexology uses targeted pressure-point manipulation to restore the flow of energy throughout your body and focuses on restoring balance. It is also a targeted healing method in that each pressure point corresponds to a specific organ or area.
Massage therapy, on the other hand, is the manipulation of feet muscles, tissues and ligaments to provide relaxation, relieve tension and improve circulation. This can also have a generalized effect of your overall health and well-being, but not to the same extent as reflexology.
This statement leads us nicely into your next question, which is most likely…
So, what are the Benefits?
Quite simply, reflexology can address any health issues, ranging from headaches and sinus problems to stomach issues and even fertility concerns. If sensitivity or tenderness is experienced when an area is stimulated, it usually indicates bodily weaknesses or imbalances within the corresponding organ.
With repeated pressure and manipulation of nerve endings, reflexology can help to clear any channels of blocked energy. It is said to do so through moving the flow of blood, nutrients and nerve impulses. This ultimately improves overall health and balance.
Reflexology can also help to cleanse the body of toxins, boost your immune system, balance your energy, boost circulation and many more.
What to Expect At the Spa
If you’re ready to book in for a reflexology treatment, you quite obviously want to know what to expect so that you’re properly prepared and will get the most out of your upcoming session. This section will aim to give you the basic information you need.
What is a reflexology session like?
Most treatment sessions typically last for 30 minutes, but can go up to an hour, so make sure you have enough time. You should also discuss any health issues with your reflexologist beforehand, like constipation, recurrent headaches or trouble sleeping, so that the expert can tailor your treatment plan accordingly.
You will be clothed for the session and will either be seated or lying down. Your therapist will rub, press down on and squeeze pressure points on your feet. Depending on your previous discussions, they may focus on specific areas to alleviate a particular ailment, like your toes if you’ve complained of sinus issues. Otherwise, they may work on the whole foot to strengthen all systems in your body.
Some Key Points to Remember:
- Wait at least one hour after the massage before eating
- Don’t receive reflexology if you are pregnant. Try a prenatal massage instead.
- Drink water following the treatment to eliminate toxins and lactic acid buildup that occurs during the massage
- Consult a doctor first if you have foot problems, an injury or a blood vessel disease associated with clots or varicose veins
For more information on reflexology treatments, get in touch with the experts at Body & Balance – Central Australia to see which massage is right for you.
