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What is reflexology?
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Many people find reflexology to be a relaxing experience similar to having a massage. Many people with chronic health problems such as fibromialga, can find relief with reflexogoly as well.
Reflexology literally means the study of how one part reflects or relates to another part of the body. The hands, feet, and ears have different reflex points that correspond to all the other parts of the body including the various body systems such as the circulation, nervous, and endocrine systems.
By using the thumb and fingers in a particular fashion these points are stimulated on the feet and consequently stimulate that particular part of the body as well.
Reflexology is an ancient healing art that has its roots in China, Egypt and India. About 100 years ago, reflexology had a revival and found its way into the American medical community and finally though the efforts of Eunice Ingham, to the public.
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What are the benefits of reflexology?
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Reflexology can stimulate the body's own healing process and help the body to maintain homeostasis. It releases tension, relaxes the various body systems and rejuvenates the body. Because stress is one of the leading causes of disease in the body, reflexology is beneficial for many of the conditions that are stress related.
Reflexologists are not doctors and reflexology does not replace medical treatment, but can be used in conjunction with most medical treatments. Reflexology may improve circulation in the body, help to reduce pain, and in general is just overall very relaxing. The benefits are not just physical, but many clients also report feeling better emotionally and psychologically.
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What should I expect from a session?
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A session can last anywhere from 30 - 60 minutes depending on the practitioner. Reflexology can be done on the hands and ears, but most reflexologist focus on the feet. Some reflexologists may work back and forth between the feet or work one foot and then the other.
Some reflexologist combine lotions or aromatherapy with the session, so if you have allergies, you should alert the reflexologist when you call for an appointment. While most reflexologists just use their hands, some schools include the use of "tools" such as rollers, small probes and thumpers, or small vibrational machines.
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Are there any side effects?
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In addition to the numerous positive effects, such as feeling relaxed or energized and not wanting to put your shoes back on, there can be some other side effects.
One of the benefits of reflexology is that is helps the body to detoxify. Parts of the body or organs can become sluggish due to a buildup of waste products. When these parts of the body are stimulated during a session, the body may detoxify or release the built up toxins often through a loosening of the bowels.
A few individuals may experience flu like symptoms if the body detoxifies too quickly. That is why reflexologist and massage therapists encourage the individual to drink lots of water after a session, because the water helps the body flush out those unwanted toxins.
Many people report sleeping well after a session especially if it has been later in the day.
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Can it be painful?
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The foot may have sensitive areas where tension is stored. The goal of the session is to release that tension, but it should not be painful. The therapist always works within the client's range of sensitivity.
That being said, the techniques and pressure used may vary from reflexologist to reflexologist and the way reflexology is practiced in the United States varies from other countries.
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Is it ticklish?
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| Reflexologist use a firm touch and the movements are designed to be relaxing not ticklish.
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Q & A author
Answers written by Becky Cobb of Balance & Harmony/Reflexology by Becky.
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Other articles on reflexology
More articles coming soon!
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Reflexology Directory listings
Visit the reflexology page for a listing of reflexologists in Central Illinois.
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