Definition

Reflexology is the systematic application

of pressure techniques to the feet and

hands. Research has shown the specific

techniques of reflexology to be effective in

many ways: creating relaxation, easing

pain and ameliorating symptoms of health

concerns.

Whether you’re seeking a treat or a

treatment, luxuriating in relaxation or

addressing your health concerns, reflexology

can help. The long time traditional

practice has become a complement to medicine

as research has documented its effectiveness.

By choosing to use reflexology, you

take a step toward a fitter and healthier

you. Improvement in the quality of your

life is at hand. Try reflexology today—and

join millions of others.

Reflexology Chart

The reflexology chart mirrors

a reflection of the body

on the feet and hands, left

foot representing the body’s

left half and the right foot its

right half.

In reflexology practice,

technique is applied to the

relevant reflex area(s) to

prompt a change in the

related part of the body.

Research has demonstrated

such effects for several reflex

areas and their reflected parts

of the body.

What is the history of reflexology?

Around the world and throughout history,

reflexology has been rediscovered as a health

practice time and time again. Archeological

evidence in Egypt, China and Japan points to

ancient reflexology medical systems.

In the West, the concept of reflexology

began to emerge in the 19th century, based

on European and Russian research into the

nervous system and the reflex (think Pavlov).

American developments in charts and techniques

launched today’s reflexology. Most

recently, reflexology use has spread globally

with people all over the world seeking fitness,

health and medical results

Is there research in reflexology?

More than 170 studies of reflexology's

effects have been conducted with 90% showing

a positive result. Effectiveness was demonstrated

as symptoms were ameliorated for

health concerns stemming from tension (e. g.

elevated blood pressure, anxiety, constipation,

headaches, labor times for the pregnant)

and pain relief. Further responses (e. g. for

those with asthma, diabetes, cholesterol,

incontinence) were found to require an

appropriate number and frequency of sessions.

How Do I Get Results?

As you consider how to get results with

reflexology, consider what you’re seeking

and how to focus on the reflexology solution.

Is it self-help, at-home help or professional

services that will achieve your goal(s)? A

reflexologist serves as a resource ready to

educate and help with such decisions

What are the benefits of reflexology?

As proven by research, the benefits of

reflexology include:

• relaxation

• pain reduction

• amelioration of symptoms for health concerns

• improvement in blood flow

• impact on physiological measures (e. g.

blood pressure and cholesterol; measurements

by ECG, EEG, and fMRI)

• improved post-operative recovery and pain

reduction

• enhancement of medical care (e. g. diabetes,

phantom limb pain, and hemodialysis patients)

• adjunct to mental health care (e. g. depression,

anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder)

• complement to cancer care (pain, nausea,

vomiting, anxiety)

• easier birthing and post-partum recovery.

How does reflexology work?

Pressure sensors in the feet and hands are

a part of the body's reflexive response that

makes possible the “fight or flight” reaction

to danger. Feet ready to flee and hands ready

to fight communicate with the body's internal

organs to make possible either eventuality.

The sudden adrenal surge that enables a person

to lift a car is an example of this reaction.

Reflexology taps into this reflex network,

providing an exercise of pressure sensors and

thus the internal organs to which they are

closely tied.

The net result is that reflexology impacts

multiple mechanisms of the body, helping it

re-set tension levels, relieve pain, improve

blood flow, and create better communication

within the nervous system. One’s body, thus,

achieves a homeostatic balance, better able

to cope with the stresses of life.

What can I expect from a reflexology session?

During a reflexology session, the reflexologist

will apply pressure techniques to your bare

feet or hands. You’ll be seated comfortably in a

recliner or lying down facing the reflexologist. A

typical session lasts for 30 minutes to an hour.

How can reflexology help me?

Whether you’re seeking to relax, renew and

rejuvenate or to care for a recent or chronic condition,

choosing reflexology helps you take an

active role in your health.

From the moment the reflexologist’s hands

start their work, the relaxation begins. Studies

show this to be true as well as demonstrating that

a reflexology session provides a respite from

both physical and mental aspects of stress.

Consider a series of sessions if you have a

health concern or if you’d like to help your body

work better. Such frequency and consistency

help the body do both.

“My feet feel like I’m walking on pillows” is

a comment frequently heard following a reflexology

session. Foot reflexology makes for happier

feet especially if they face a standing

profession or the challenge of finding comfortable

shoes.

Feel good, boost your system and help your

body work better: you’ll leave your reflexology

session with a smile on your face and a spring in

your step knowing you’re on a path to wellness.

How long does it take to see results?

Research shows that

a single reflexology session:

• creates relaxation

• reduces anxiety

• diminishes pain

• improves blood flow to the kidneys, intestines,

and feet

• improves blood flow to parts of the brain corresponding

to the reflex areas on the foot

• decreases the heart rate and blood pressure

• increases oxygen saturation and lowers respiratory

rate.

Research shows that

a series of reflexology sessions:

Improves the body overall by helping every part

of it, for example:

• improving the functioning of the kidneys

(waste product removal, red blood cell level,

immune system)

• impacting the digestive system and relieving

constipation in children, women, and the elderly

• easing difficult urination for men and incontinence

in women

• easing PMS and menopause for women and

prostate problems for men

• creating changes in physiological measurements

of the pancreas.

Disclaimer

Reflexology is a complement to medical care. It should not

be construed as medical advice or considered to be a

replacement for medical help.

Copyright

© Kunz & Kunz 2010

, For more info, see www.reflexologyresearch.

com, Photo: DK Publishers