The Chinese knew that the whole body is connected by an energetic circuit that runs from head to toes, and created a medical system that utilises meridian lines and acupressure points.
So how does it work?
The understanding is that reflex points on the feet correspond to every organ, gland and part of the body. And by applying pressure to these reflex points, the correlating part of the body feels the benefit.
In reflexology, the toes relate to the head and the ball of the foot represents the chest area, so if your lungs are full of phlegm for example, it's good to massage the balls of your feet.
If you feel little nodules, or crystals, under the skin, that's a sign that some blockage has occurred.
The massage techniques used by a reflexologist works to break down these crystals until they disperse. This may take more than one treatment, but the afflicted area of the body can feel the benefit after just one session.
What is a treatment like?
I recently tried a treatment and felt like I'd undergone a body MOT. The therapist asked me to lie down on a massage couch, fully dressed except for my lower legs and feet. It is quite normal for a client to be seated, depending on taste and comfort. After wiping my toes and feet with an antiseptic, she got to work swiftly and precisely - squeezing, kneading and applying pressure to my toes - as though each tiny section in between each toe was essential to my overall well-being.
As the therapist prodded at my feet, a wave of calm swept over me. I didn't know I was stressed, but as my feet were massaged, tension left me. Before long, I was in that happy blissed-out state between sleep and dream - aware but not alert.
The next day I felt grounded and able to make clear focused decisions. I could see what I'd been avoiding. It was as if the reflexology awoke my mind and vision through working my feet.
What is it good for?
Reflexology is considered good for many modern and common ailments, and is an all round health tonic. Suitable for children and adults of all ages, reflexology is known to treat:
- Relaxation
- Pain reduction
- Tired feet
- Improvement in blood flow
- Post-operative recovery and pain reduction
- Mental health depression, anxiety and stress
- Complement to cancer care (pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety)
- Easier birthing / delivery / post-partum recovery
Where can I find a reflexologist?
There are many practitioners in the UK and some doctor's surgeries have recommendations, but these links will help you find out more or locate a therapist.
Reflexology Research (worldwide info resource)
Embody (UK therapists)
International Institute of Reflexology (UK site)