Massage therapy is not comparable to reflexology. Reflexology matches the pressure points of the feet (especially) with the larger areas of the body. The basis of this technique is the belief that the foot is divided into zones that are a mirror image of the body.
Some considerations in favor of reflexology therapy are its value in the following situations:
- Reduces stress
- Improves blood and lymph circulation
- Encourages removal of bodily toxins and impurities
- Brings balance to physical and emotional aspects of body
- Revitalizes energy
- Strengthens the immune system
- Relieves back pain
- Brings balance to hormones
- Stabilizes disorders of digestive system
- Relieves sports injuries
Reflexologist
A reflexologist is a trained professional who considers himself/herself a holistic medicine practitioner. The reflexologist is not a foot doctor but rather believes that the foot provides the map to the rest of the body.
The trained reflexologist can manipulate areas in both hands and feet, bringing a feeling of relief, relaxation and healing to the area of the body that corresponds to the point where pressure is applied.
Pressure
Pressure is the application of force that creates overall feelings of strength when applied against a pre-selected point. The use of pressure is central to the art and science of reflexology. It is also the fine point that differentiates massage therapy from reflexology therapy.
The application of pressure requires the knowledge to associate areas of the hands or feet with other parts of the human body. The feet in particular provide a road map to the rest of the body. This therapy applies pressure to the identified point on the foot map that corresponds to the area of the body seeking relief.
Blockages that are responsible for disease or pain respond to the pressure applied to certain points matching much larger areas of the body. The reflexologist searches out the pressure sensors known to exist in the feet and hands.
Benefits and Warnings
Benefits: Reflexology has a history of relieving some conditions in which pain is the principal symptom. This is a safe, complementary alternative medicine (CAM) with very few side effects. It is especially ideal if you are looking to enjoy a comforting, long and relaxing foot massage.
It will not cause harm or worsen any condition. At the end of a treatment session, the only side effect is that your feet will truly feel great. Happy feet are the key to overall comfort.
Warnings: Reflexology is no substitute for competent professional medical treatment for your condition. It is complementary -- that is, it is meant to be used in conjunction with treatment from your mainstream medical professional.
