Ancient Healing: What is Reflexology?

The earliest records of massage therapy reveals that the practice is linked to ancient healing approaches in Egypt and China. Some of the information dates back to between 3000 and 2500 BCE. Researchers, who have found Egyptian tomb paintings depicting individuals having a kneading process performed on their bodies, have discovered most of what we know today.

An important form of ancient massage is called reflexology, which has been linked to the Egyptians in 2500 BCE. This procedure deals with a practitioner applying pressure to specific points (also referred to as reflex zones) on the feet and hands. When attention is paid to these specific points, an individual enjoys beneficial results. Today, the practice is rather popular and is known as a well-accepted form of natural healing, as well as an effective form of alternative medicine.

Reflexology concentrates on applying pressure to the feet and hands. A practitioner will gently press or massage certain parts of the foot, hand, and sometimes the ears. It is the goal of reflexology to bring stimulation to the nerves throughout the body. As a result, blood is encouraged to flow to desired parts of the body. This holistic approach in healing has the potential to create a great deal of benefits.

Benefits of Reflexology

When following the principles of reflexology, one can tap into a world of healing that has changed the course of many health-related concerns. This includes:

·    Headaches are cured in some cases, allowing an individual to forego the usual popping of Tylenol and other pain medication.

·    Women suffering premenstrual symptoms can use reflexology to reduce the intensity of cramps and other aches that tend to arise.

·    The practice has helped people battling poor blood circulation, which could literally become a lifesaver for diabetics.

·    People with digestive issues have responded to reflexology.

Other ways that this form of massage can treat patients include providing stress relief, relieving insomnia, and solving back and shoulder pain, especially for people who repeatedly place strain on these body parts.

The Ease of Reflexology

A lot of people become interested in reflexology because it is easy to do at anytime and at any place. Typically, the therapy is practiced for six days per week. It is suggested to rate your progress after two weeks have passed. Some people are interested in knowing if there are any side effects that take place with the practice of reflexology. The only thing that some people report is that the second session could see a bit of discomfort to the point where pressure is applied. This is because, over time, the pressure point becomes tender or sensitive to the touch.