Reflexology is a holistic treatment that entails massaging and pressing on certain reflex spots on the feet. According to this ancient discipline, reflex points are linked to specific organs of the body, therefore stimulating specific locations with massage can result in a variety of health benefits such as pain relief, improved locomotor system performance, stress relief, and speedier recovery. Particularly if the hands and feet are afflicted, in particular conditions or after an injury.
The foot’s zones and reflex points
Each zone is mapped with active so-called reflex sites belonging to distinct organs, and each zone is divided into 5 zones that correspond to different areas of the body. The symptoms associated with the specific organ are relieved by applying pressure to the exact spot.
FIRST ZONE
The active points are located on the corresponding foot in this zone, and the reflex points of the paired organs (such as the eyes, ears, and so on) are put on the corresponding foot (eg left foot – left eye, right foot – right eye).
ZONE SECOND
In the second zone, the left and right foot reflex points differ in that the heart reflex point is also positioned on the left foot. To calm the heart, relax, and relieve stress, massage this active spot of the foot is recommended.
ZONE THREE
The active points in the third zone correspond to the organs’ locations in the abdomen. The liver and gallbladder are on the right side of the body, hence their reflex points are on the right foot. Similarly, the spleen reflex point is located on the left foot.
Because of the stomach’s central location in the abdominal cavity, its active points are on both feet.
FOURTH ZONE
The small and large intestine reflex points, which are identically positioned on each feet, are included in this zone.
ZONE FIVE
The reflex points in the last zone correspond to the genitals and are the same on both feet. The reflex point for bettering sleep quality is located in this zone.
How do you give yourself a foot massage?
Although it is preferable to have the massage done by someone else, you can do it yourself.
Before starting the massage, it is advisable to “warm up” the foot – go barefoot around the room, move your toes and take a warm foot bath.
Massage the entire foot with soft strokes and light pressure, then press on each active point for 3-7 seconds, starting at the toes and working your way up to the heel. If a particular place is sensitive, massage it thoroughly with your thumb for a few seconds before pausing. Repeat the technique as needed, but no more than once each minute.
After the first treatment, you should be able to feel the benefits of the massage.
ATTENTION! If you have any of the following conditions, do not stimulate the reflex points of your feet.
- Diarrhea and / or vomiting;
- Localized skin disease of the feet;
- Fever;
- Presence of localized swelling, redness or pain in the feet;
- You are in the first trimester of pregnancy.
Although there is still no medically proven evidence of the real benefits of this practice, more and more people around the world are using reflexology because this treatment, despite its possible health benefits, is pleasant, relaxing and does not involve the use of drugs and other chemicals.
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Reflexology…
