How Reflexology Works
Things to Know

How it Works

When one part of the body is affected, the entire body suffers because of it. Reflexology works to relax the entire body and restore it's functions to normal.

Reflexology is based on the theory that is the body is in a healthy condition, with no congestion in it, it will be manifested by tender areas in the feet. This tenderness is caused by crystalline deposits which form at the nerve endings in the feet. They may be acid or alkaline in character, but they do denote congested areas in the body, and this congestion interferes with the circulation of the body. Deposits must be worked out in order to improve the circulation. These deposits will be noticed as tender spots.

The purpose in doing compression foot massage is to break up these deposits (or crush them) so that they may become solvent and be carried away with the rest of the waste material in the body. Since the body works as a unit, the malfunctioning of even one part of the body will affect the rest of it.

It is important to use pressure when massaging in order to make the right contact with the deposits, thereby helping them to dissolve. The amount of pressure varies, usually from two to ten pounds. The amount of pressure will also depend on the tenderness of the feet and hands.

All parts of the nervous system are bound together by connective pathways; so massaging one area will also help to relax many other areas. One natural way of helping to remove the deposits is to walk barefoot every chance you get. Nature intended us to walk barefoot, but we wear shoes while encouraging deposits to form.

Be sure to be in a comfortable position during a massage. Having a reclining chair with your feet elevated would give the greatest benefits.

Things To Know

A foot massage increases the circulation, relieves nervous tension, and completely relaxes the body. Reactions are likely to occur, but these are natural reactions. The reactions will eventually subside as your body adjusts and you will feel much better. I sometimes ache more after a massage and then feel much better within a few days.

You may get dizzy or lightheaded while getting a foot massage. Massage the reflex area to the pituitary gland, which is the master gland. This reaction occurs because the body cannot accept the rapidity with which nature rids the body of toxins, and reacts.

Whenever possible massage toward or in the direction of the heart.

A complete foot massage should not be given for at least two days prior to a person's having a blood sugar test done. When the reflex area to the liver is massaged, the glycogen is released as sugar; this will cause an elevation in the blood sugar. Also, the reflex area to the pancreas will cause insulin to be released. When the adrenal glands are massaged the production of certain hormones alters the blood sugar levels. Within two days after a massage, the body itself will correct the blood sugar level.

Organs or parts on the right side of the body have their reflex areas on the right foot and hand. Organs or parts on the left side of the body have their reflex areas on the left foot and hand. Organs extending past the middle or center of the body will have reflex areas on both feet and hands. Where there are two like organs, such as the kidneys, each has a reflex area on it's corresponding foot and hand.

The lower half of the body has its reflex areas on the lower half of the foot, and the upper half of the body has it's reflexes on the upper half of the foot. The waistline is located approximately halfway between the base of the toes and the lower part of the heel. The lower leg corresponds to the forearm, the upper leg to the upper arm, ankle to the wrist, and the knee to the elbow.

Note that various books and charts are Reflexology may have areas in slightly different places. Remember no two people are alike; therefore, the reflex areas may vary slightly in each person. Doing a complete foot massage and covering every part of the foot, you will be sure that good results are obtained. Regardless of where you find a tender spot, work it out as this will give the person you are massaging a tremendous amount of relief and relaxation!

If you have calluses or corns try removing them prior to a massage. I have always used a pumice stone to file away calluses on my feet and hands. Definitely helps your circulation having smooth hands and feet. If your toe nails are thick keep them cut as short as possible.

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