How Does Foot Reflexology Work?
When we think of traditional health treatments, we usually don’t think about feet first. But, people have been practicing foot reflexology for centuries, and many swear by its healing properties. Supposedly, this practice can help relieve anxiety and stress and aid digestion. So, what exactly is foot reflexology and how does it work?
What is it?
This ancient practice dates back all the way to 2330 BC and is used in both traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda. It became popular in the United states in the early 1900s where it was given the name “reflexology.”
Foot reflexology is similar to a massage but definitely not the same. This practice is based on the idea that our feet and hands have different “meridian points” that connect to various areas of our body, including organs and glands. The stimulation of these meridians should, in theory, help ease pain and facilitate the function of these different bodily areas.
Feet have 15,000 nerves and are very sensitive to touch and pressure, which is part of the reason why foot massages and reflexology feel so good.
How do you do it?
Unlike a massage, foot reflexology goes beyond just rubbing the foot muscles. In a massage, the tissues can be massaged to relax the muscles and ease tension, as well as improve overall blood circulation. Foot reflexology is targeted on certain areas to restore energy flow through the body as a whole. You can get this done at a massage parlor but can also attempt it at home!
Often, it’s easiest to start by looking at a reflexology chart or map.
Essentially, if you have an area of your body that needs special attention, you can refer to the chart and see where on your foot you should massage. There's lots of different techniques to use, but some include kneading through the ball of the foot, “thumb walking” around the different zones, and toe pulling.
There are also various items that can be used in this treatment like rubber bands, small balls, and sticks.
What are the benefits?
People who practice foot reflexology swear by the health benefits they’ve experienced. Here are just a few:
Increased relaxation
Improved circulation
Improved sleep
Reversed eye strain
Better digestion
Decreased pain
It may seem a little weird to rub your feet when your stomach hurts, but you’ll never know until you try it. There must be a reason why people have been doing this practice for centuries, so try it out for yourself! You may just discover a DIY remedy for whatever is paining you.
Here are some sources if you want to learn more:
https://www.healthline.com/health/foot-reflexology-chart#does-it-work
https://www.foot-pain-explored.com/reflexology-foot-chart.html
https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/diy-foot-reflexology
https://www.spafinder.com/blog/healing/reflexology-101-treatment-benefits/