Article by Lori Howes, CRT, 200-RYT Gentle Soles Reflexology
Every time I meet someone and they find out I’m a Reflexologist, their first question is usually, what’s that? And when they discover that I primarily work on the feet, they usually say, “Oh I love having my feet massaged”.
And it’s true, at the end of each session, I actually do massage my client’s feet, but a foot massage is actually different from foot reflexology and here’s how:
What Is Foot Massage?
As we know, our feet can take a beating. We run around and most of us are on our feet all day often wearing shoes, though stylish, aren’t necessarily best for your feet. All of this can leave feet sore, tense, and throbbing. A thorough massage of your feet can relieve pain significantly. In fact, applying pressure to the muscles of the feet stimulates them and improves circulation. Increased blood flow also promotes healing and reduces tension. You can give yourself a foot massage or ask someone, by kneading stiff or sore areas with fingers and knuckles and spreading toes apart to stretch the muscles.
What Is Foot Reflexology?
While a foot massage promotes healing in the feet, the purpose of foot reflexology is to promote wellness throughout the entire body.
A Reflexologist uses thumb walking to target pressure-points to restore the flow of energy throughout the body. The treatment usually focuses on the feet, but it can also include the hands and ears.
There are numerous reflex points throughout the feet that, when stimulated, induce healing in other body parts, both internal and external leading to balance throughout the body.
There can be many potential benefits of this kind of treatment, which leads to the next question you might be asking.
What are the benefits?
Reflexology can address anything from headaches to sinus problems to stomach issues. If sensitivity or tenderness is experienced when an area is stimulated, it usually indicates bodily weaknesses or imbalances within the corresponding organ.
With repeated pressure and manipulation of nerve endings, reflexology can help to clear any channels of blocked energy. It is said to do so through moving the flow of blood, nutrients and nerve impulses. This ultimately improves overall health and balance.
Other potential benefits:
- Cleanse the body of toxins
- Boost the immune system
- Increase circulation/reduce inflammation
- Promote healing
- Overall sense of well being
The bottom line? Having feet touched or rubbed just feels good and I’m delighted to offer that service, I just thought it might be nice to know there actually is a difference.
Contact: Lori 508-685-2195
Email: lorisurrendered@verizon.net
