Reflexology: discovering this technique and its benefits

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Foot reflexology promotes several health benefits and may help treating various types of diseases. The technique relies on the pressure on specific points of the feet related to the various parts of the body.

When these points are pressed, the brain sends messages to the corresponding glands that, then, understand that they need to release beneficial hormones to help repairing or preventing certain imbalances that may occur in our body.

The method is natural, but foot reflexology has some contraindications. People with diabetes, varicose veins or pregnant women need medical approval because foot reflexology stimulates blood circulation and can dislodge blood clots in the veins.

It is worth remembering that reflexology has as main objective to act in the prevention and the aid to the treatment of dysfunctions of the body by means of applying pressure on the reflex zones of the feet, the hands, the ears or the face. So, how does it benefit you? Is it safe for pregnant women? And can children benefit from this technique as well?

How does reflexology work?

In addition to dissolving the crystals of uric acid and calcium deposited in the lower limbs, the pressure and stimulation in the points of the feet promote the relaxation of the body, the improvement of blood circulation and the balance of the organs and glands. Massage activates the body’s ability to recover and heal itself.

There are basically two explanations for this technique: for the Orientals, the effect happens thanks to the fact that the movements allow the Chi energy to circulate throughout the body; while Westerners, based on conventional Medicine, believe that the effectiveness of massage is a consequence of the rest of the body being connected to the feet by the nerve endings.

Benefits of Reflexology

The benefits of reflexology are innumerable. As main advantages of the technique can be cited:

Relief of pain in the spine and pain in general;
Decreased stress;
Relaxation;
Stimulation of blood circulation;
Stimulation of the immune system;
Release of toxins from the body;
Emotional harmonization.

What are the benefits of reflexology for pregnant women?

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine, pregnant women should avoid reflexology with strong and intense stimulation. What’s possible to do throughout gestation is foot massage in a lighter and more relaxing way.

The strong stimulus of traditional reflexology acts directly on the blood circulation, which can accelerate labor. For this reason, in pregnant women, professionals can apply it precisely for this purpose, in the opportune moment to help the baby take his first breath.

Can children and youngsters also benefit from this therapy?

Yes, of course. The child’s organs are still growing, therefore the stimulus will promote the energetic functions of the organs, stimulating their growth. In youngsters, reflexology can help reducing stress.

Now that you know all the advantages that foot reflexology offers, look for a specialist and try the treatment, the results may surprise you. If you have already benefited from the treatment, leave your comment and tell us your experience.