Reflexology is a holistic technique offering natural "sole-utions" to many symptoms. The primary goal of reflexology is to relax the body by stimulating reflex points (nerve endings) in the hands, ears, face, spine, scalp, and feet. Working different reflex points stimulates different parts and processes within the body, as well as helping to improve the flow of blood and lymph. The central nervous system (CNS), meridian system, nerve impulses, and bioelectrical energy throughout the body is also affected and balanced. It works with the energy flow of the body to promote natural self-healing; when the body's energy pathways become blocked, the body experiences various levels of discomfort, which often present as grainy/tender areas that have crystalline deposits of calcium and uric acid that develop at the base of the nerves when there is an imbalance of energy in the nerve pathway. New neuronets are created by retraining nerves and interrupting pain patterns through relaxation and safe touch while re-educating the body to run a new, positive pattern.
My hope is to provide rest and relaxation to allow for normalization of homeostasis and balance to occur in a safe and conducive atmosphere. I use a holistic approach in addressing issues from an integrative perspective. Reflexology along with the other modalities I offer are all designed to bring homeostasis to the body to help alleviate depression, pain, stress and other health challenges. In this way, the body has an opportunity to heal itself by using its own self-correcting reflexes.
To your health and healing!
Reflexology is not massage nor is it a foot massage. While both reflexology and massage share the same goal, which is relaxation and enhancing well-being, they are two different modalities with their own individual strengths. Reflexology has its own history, vocabulary, theories that are separate from any other profession. Reflexology is based on the theory that when the body's energy pathways become blocked, the body experiences various levels of discomfort. Both involve using the hands to apply techniques but here are three important differences between the two disciplines:
1.) Massage is the systematic manipulation of soft tissues of the body, while reflexology is the application of specific pressure to reflex points in the hands, feet, ears, face, spine, and scalp. The effect of reflexology is seen at a distance form where the pressure is applied; its intent is not to change the soft tissue of the body.
2.) Massage works through the musculature, while reflexology works through the nervous system.
3.) Massage employs many different types of strokes to directly affect specific areas of the body, while reflexology uses on and off pressure with the thumbs and fingers to indirectly stimulate many areas that an individual might not otherwise be able to affect.
*info credit via Hands on Feet by Michelle K. Ebbin
1.) Stress relief
2.) Muscle relaxation
3.) Circulation improvement
4.) Detoxify and cleanse—encourages the body to "let go" and eliminate toxins and waste
5.) Body systems balancer for the mind, body, and spirit; helps to bring balance in every organ, gland, muscle, tissue, and system of the body
6.) Vitality renewal
7.) Pain relief
8.) Preventative care that strengthens the body
9.) Promotes positive, safe touch that is essential for well-being
10.) Integrates body, mind, and spirit—reflexology reflects the theory of Chinese Medicine in that it sees the body, mind, and spirit as a cooperative whole, and treats the body in its entirety; by opening and balancing energy in the nerve pathways, reflexology not only relieves physical problems, but it clears out emotional debris as well