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      Have you ever wondered why getting a foot rub from a friend can make you feel so good? Known as the “reflex effect” science is showing now how pressure or movement in one part of the body effects another part of the body. It is this effect that makes reflexology such an effective and useful form of bodywork.

      Reflexology studies lists 10 longitudinal zones that dissect the body ending in the feet and hands and theorizes that manipulation of specific points on the feet and hands can effect a change in the corresponding body part.¹ Charts are available for reflexology massage practitioners detailing specific areas of the hands and feet to stimulate to effect change in the body systems and organs. Reflexology treatments work primarily by stimulating the autonomic nervous system.²

      Reflexology massage has been practiced for centuries and is first seen recorded on Egyptian tomb paintings 2000 BC. ¹ Recent research from the medical realm points to significant and varied benefits of reflexology massages including decreasing nausea, fatigue and anxiety in chemotherapy patients; essential hypertension patients showing significant decreases in triglyceride levels and diastolic pressure; and women suffering with depression showing stronger immune systems and perceived stress levels.³

       A basic reflexology massage will include a warm-up relaxation foot massage to loosen the tissues of the feet and warm them up in preparation for deeper work. Range of Motion (ROM) and joint movements are often incorporated to fully relax any stiffness before proceeding to the reflexology points later in the massage session. While hands also include meridian reflexology points it is usually the feet that a therapist will spend the most time on during a reflexology massage session.

       Most reflexologists will work through the points specific to each body system, rather than just working on the foot from the top down or from one side to the other. So while it may seem areas of the foot are covered by the reflexologist more than once, the massage therapist is actually working in a very precise pattern. The reflexology session will go over points that relate to the Face and Head, the Respiratory System, the Endocrine System, the Digestive System, the Urinary System, the Reproductive System, the Circulatory System, Immune Systems and the Nervous System.

      During a reflexology massage it is common for the massage therapist to cover acupressure points in the face, ears and hands as well as those in the feet. More time will be spent on areas where restrictions and blockages are found and less time on areas that appear to be functioning in a healthy manner.

      After a reflexology massage it is important to drink lots of water and eat plenty of whole, unprocessed foods. Reflexology massage, like most deep level massages, can release toxins as the body cleanses itself of chronic blockages and relaxes tight areas. High fluid intake after your reflexology massage can help clear that from the body quickly and prevent you from feeling as sore after your massage.

Resources:

1. Tappan's Handbook of Healing Massage Techniques by Tappan and Benjamin. 4^th Edition.

2. The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexologyby Barbara Kunz and Kevin Kunz

3. Massage and Bodywork Magazine, Somatic Research Column. 'In Step: Reflexology Around the World' by Shirley Vanderbilt; October/November 2006