Our feet take a lot of daily wear and tear. Whether it’s walking on concrete sidewalks for hours, walking in high-heel shoes, going for a long hike in the woods or sitting for hours in a chair, our feet get either too much or too little exercise. No wonder foot massage has existed for thousands of years as a way of easing stress.
Reflexology is an alternative medicine that involves foot massage. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that are supposed to reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the idea that massaging an area on the feet or hands will positively effect a change to the body.
Although there is no solid evidence that reflexology is effective in treating any medical condition, many people say that they feel relaxed and less tension in their body after receiving a reflexology massage. For instance if someone has sinus problems, it can be helped with massaging the toes. If you have back pain, working the outside side of your foot may help alleviate the pain.
Practitioners of reflexology tend to have different opinions as to the map of the feet, and therefore you will find that every reflexology chart is going to be a little bit different. Reflexology works because it stimulates the thousands of nerves that we have in our hands and feet and increases blood flow.
If someone’s feet has a tender area it could indicate a nerve point has been triggered. Reflexologists will often hold a tender spot for a little bit until the pain dissipates and blood flow is restored.
Anyone who has had a foot massage will tell you it’s not always a comfortable, pain-free experience! But once you get used to it, it can be a wonderful way to de-stress and prepare you for a good night’s sleep. Getting your feet massaged right before you go to bed is said to help you rest, relax and fall asleep faster!
Here’s a short video of how to give yourself a quick massage.
And for those with more time, here’s a longer video explaining the areas and techniques in much further detail. It’s long but has lots of good tips.
Have you tried reflexology before? Share these informative videos with your family and friends.
Reflexology points can also be found on your hands and your ears!
Disclaimer: The content in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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