Reflexology is a therapy that’s based on the idea that nerves in your extremities correspond to other parts of the body, like the muscles and internal organs. The nerve endings in the hands and feet provide a way to navigate issues in the body at large. For example, the bottom of the smallest toe connects to the ear, or the ball of the foot represents the same-side lung. By special massage and pressure on those extremities, reflexology can improve the function of the corresponding part of the body, by releasing tension, improving the circulation, and generally bringing the area back to normal condition.
Where did Reflexology Come From?
Reflexology has a long history, extending back into ancient China and Egypt, but in more recent years, has been advanced by several individuals. Dr. William Fitzgerald was one of the earliest modern reflexologists, publishing an article on his findings in 1915 about what he called systematized foot therapy. Latter, Eunice Ingham mapped out the nerves of the hands and feet with how they correspond to different parts of the body, and developed the system that modern reflexology uses to get results today.
What is Reflexology Therapy Used For?
As a massage treatment, reflexology therapy is mostly used for clients who can’t or do not wish to have full body contact during their massage. This could be for many reasons: limited mobility, sensitivity, or even simply shyness. For whatever the reason, someone who wants to get the release of tension and relaxation from a massage without taking their clothes off and lying down on the massage table should absolutely consider reflexology therapy. By focusing on the extremities in very specific manners, the masseuse is able to affect deeper parts of the body that are afflicted with tension and discomfort without actually touching those spots.
What to Expect from a Reflexology Appointment?
Depending on what individual issues you have, what reflexology is performed will vary. This is because the way it deals with body issues are not one size fits all, and instead are tailored to each person’s particular needs. Therefore, expect to discuss exactly what problems you’ve been having at the beginning of your first reflexology appointment. Reflexology, like massage, does not fall into the category of FDA oversight, so it will be important to search in order to identify the best reflexology therapy near Ajax, ON. While not medically approved, reflexology does have an established history of making people feel better, less tense, and more relaxed.
