Most of you might have heard about foot reflexology and the benefits associated with it. But, if you really want to reap the benefits of foot reflexology then it is absolutely crucial to obtain complete information about the way it works and its principles.
To start, foot reflexology has its roots in the ancient principles that each and every gland as well as organ in our body is linked to reflex points on foot. When pressure is applied on those points, through the right technique, it helps us stimulate these reflex points, which in turn unblock the energy channels.
When the energy channels are unblocked then it leads to a flow of positive energy throughout our body, thereby triggering our body’s self healing capabilities. So, now we know what foot reflexology is, even though that was just a general overview. Let’s take a detailed look into its different aspects.
The Concept Behind Foot Reflexology
Studies have revealed that the foot represents our body, and it is divided into 10 different reflex zones. These zones are like a mirror reflection of our body. If we look into a foot reflexology chart, we will see that each and every reflex zone on our foot relates to a part of our body. By applying the right amount of pressure on the reflex points, we can stimulate them, which in turn would remove the energy blockage from the corresponding organs or glands. And eventually, our body will regain its lost balance. For example, if we work on the inner edge of our foot, starting from top till bottom, then it is similar to working down our spine, starting from the neck till the lower back.
Without any doubt, reflex techniques can prove to be a good treatment option for those who do not want to take their clothes off during a massage therapy. Similarly, it is also a better option for those who do not like the usage of oil during massage. Even though performing reflexology on the foot is quite easy, opting for an experienced therapist or reflexology expert can yield better results.
It was during the starting phase of the 20th century when reflexology was incepted in the United States. During that time, it was also called as zone therapy. The theory was exactly the same – that our body is divided into 10 zones that run longitudinally from our head to toe. To be more specific, the zones are divided five on each side of our body.
In the recent times, reflexology experts have started to include acupressure techniques in the traditional form of reflexology. Even though reflexology is based on the ‘zones theory’, while acupressure is based on the ‘meridians theory’, both are more or less the same. The foot reflexology chart clearly reveals that reflexology and acupressure are closely related.
How Foot Reflexology Works
When the pressure techniques are applied to our hands or feet, it stimulates our nervous system, helping it to relax. The stimulation also helps improve the circulation of blood throughout our body. In short, reflexology is a kind of exercise for our nervous system.
As a matter of fact, pressure zones or sensors present in our hands and feet are a part of our body’s reflexive response. This makes it possible for our body to react in a fight-or-flight response, as per the situation – hands ready for combat and feet ready to flee communicate with our body’s internal organs as well as the adrenal glands. This reaction is due to the sudden stimulation of adrenal glands that release adrenaline in our blood stream, which in turn, for example, enables us to lift an extremely heavy object.
So, the use of pressure on our feet and hands through the application of reflexology on the reflex network makes it possible for us to manage our bodily functions in a better way. When we apply reflexology techniques consistently on our feet, it indirectly affects the internal organs in a positive way. By applying varying pressure to these reflex points, we can activate the natural healing powers of our body, which is also referred as homeostasis.
However, it is important to keep in mind that one should not confuse foot reflexology with basic foot or body massage. While general massage works only on that particular area where the massage is given, foot reflexology can be useful in reducing the effects/symptoms of back pain, stress, migraines, anxiety, lack of sleep, restlessness and other physiological alterations in our body.
Foot Pressure Points
If we want to apply reflexology techniques on our foot and get maximum advantage of it, then it is absolutely important to know about the different foot pressure points. Unless we know where the points are located, it won’t be easy for us to harness the health benefits of reflexology. Below are some of the basic reflexology areas on the foot:
- Head and Neck – They are represented by each and every toe, including its bone as well as joints
- Spine – This part is represented by the inside area of both the feet
- Chest – If we want to work on this area then we have to apply pressure on the ball of our foot, which means the darker part located beneath the toes.
- Waist Line – To work on this area, we need to work on the thinnest area of our foot, in terms of width. So, the shape of our foot in this part is pretty much like our waist.
- Pelvic – Finally, the bottom region of our foot represents the pelvic area of our body
So, those are the basic areas of reflexology foot chart. Still, the detailed inside and outside view of the chart can be understood only through a proper reflexology map. Though there are countless health benefits of reflexology, particularly when applied to foot, a lot of people still consider it is as a secondary option. However, if applied and practiced in the right way, reflexology can heal a wide array of health related issues.
