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What is Reflexology and How Does it Work? By Joan Savage, RN, BN Reflexology refers primarily to reflex points on the feet and hands, but there are many other usable reflex points throughout the body. There are several theories on how reflexology works. Some say that each of the 72,000 nerve endings on each foot connects to a different body area. Reflexology is a safe, natural therapy often used as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonizing the body. A reflexologist uses hands only to apply gentle pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet through reflex points which correspond to specific zones in the body. The reflexologist can release these blockages by working with the reflex points and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. The reflexologist assists the body by relaxing it and stimulating the blocked nerve endings, there by stimulating sluggish glands and organs to regain their normal functioning. Tensions are eased and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace often counteracting a lifetime of misuse. Used frequently, reflexology can give the body a general toning to enhance vitality. |