Reflexology:
Reflexology and Women’s
Health
In a study conducted by several
Australian hospitals reflexology was found to be effective for helping
pregnant women to reduce foot edema, as well as to help cope with levels
of stress, tension, anxiety, pain, tiredness, irritability and
discomfort associated with pregnancy. more
Research Exclusive: Reflexology for Chronic Constipation
Both
physical and emotional symptoms of chronic constipation were improved
when a group of women with this condition received reflexology as part
of a recent study.
"A
pilot study of the effectiveness of reflexology in treating idiopathic
constipation in women" involved 19 women diagnosed with idiopathic
constipation,
more
Like other pressure point therapies, Reflexology works with a reflex response. Stimulation to specific points activates the movement of energy to corresponding parts of the body to clear out congestion and restore normal functioning. Reflexology treatment is applied to bare feet and hands, no major preparation is needed.
The concepts of reflexology have also been traced to pre-dynastic China (possibly as early as 3000 B.C.) and to ancient Indian medicine. Reflexology is a healing art of ancient origin. Although its origins are not well documented, there are reliefs on the walls of a Sixth Dynasty Egyptian tomb (c. 2450 B.C.) that depict two seated men receiving massage on their hands and feet.
Therapists use their thumbs, slightly bent, to press deeply into the reflex points, releasing tension and encouraging better circulation of blood, lymph and energy. Reflexologists say that by promoting relaxation and stimulating circulation they may have a preventative effect, clearing minor blockages. If the sore points are followed like a road map, reflexology can be applied to asses these areas that are not functioning properly and at the same time try to correct the imbalance or alert the person to seek medical attention.
For a Reflexology session, all you need is to remove your shoes and socks. No other preparation is involved. Clients in general receive treatment in a reclining position, with the therapist positioned as necessary—to work on the bare feet, or alternately on the bare hands.
The qualified Reflexologist offers a clear and open disclaimer that reflexology does not constitute medical treatment in any form, nor is reflexology given as a substitute for medical advice or treatment. The ultimate purpose of the therapy is to promote wellness; fundamentally it is a form of preventive therapy.
Reflexology is intended to normalize the body functions, the therapy does not cause a condition to worsen. Most client find that pain diminishes over the course of the therapy. It has been noted, however, that some clients experience greater discomfort in the second session than in the first session, because a significant easing of pain and tension is generally associated with the initial therapy session. As a result, when pressure is reapplied to the tender points of the foot during the second session, the sensitivity has been heightened. This increase in sensitivity may cause minor additional discomfort for the patient.
When done by a skilled practitioner, reflexology is deeply relaxing treatment with benefits that can be felt throughout the body. Reflexology can be a good treatment choice for people who want to keep their clothes on during a massage. It is also a good choice if you are pressed for time and don't want to get oil on your body or in your hair.
50 minutes / $65
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