Benefits of Reflexology

Annalisa Zisman asked:


Thai foot massage dates back over hundreds of years, and has been one of the most effective and revered forms of massage in the Orient, and eventually all over the world. Though Thai massage can cover the entire body, the art of Thai foot massage is an art in and of itself. Thai foot massage was developed over the years by incorporating foot massage techniques from some places such as China, Japan, and Korea.

Most people who have experienced Thai foot massage can attest to its benefits. The foot is probably the most abused part of the body, but not only that, it seems to have a direct connection to every other part of the body. A good Thai foot massage not only makes your feet feel wonderful, it can promote healing and relaxation in many other parts of the body as well. In the ancient Orient, this was discovered rather early, and foot massage was used as a method of healing both the mind and the body. As a holistic treatment, those in the ancient Orient realized that foot massage could relieve stress, help promote restful sleep, increase circulation, and even help promote a better immune system. In the mental sense, it could increase alertness and enhance creativity.

Thai foot massage incorporates elements of what we recognize as reflexology. The foundation of reflexology is that there are certain points on the foot that can affect other areas of the body. Thai foot massage and reflexology can extend to the ankles and legs as well. For this reason, most Thai foot masseuses will ask for a detailed medical history before beginning treatment. In this way they can determine what pressure points can be focused on more than others, and even help patients discover problems early that they may not have been aware of. Thai foot massage usually takes about an hour, and starts not with immediately focusing on pressure points, but on what the masseuse calls “opening the pathways of energy”. In Thai foot massage it is believed that the massage must be done in stages, readying the subject for each successive step so that each step in turn can be most effective.

A reputable Thai foot masseuse also knows when massage can be beneficial and when it can actually be harmful. If there are any serious injuries or illnesses that the subject needs to address, the masseuse will require that they be treated by a physician before trying Thai foot massage. Though Thai foot massage can help in the healing process tremendously, it is not a substitution for medical treatment. During healing, however, and as long as a complete medical history is known, Thai foot massage can have incredible benefits, both for those what are in good health and for those who are suffering several different types of ailments.

Karen Loye Porter asked:


A foot massage can be one of life’s little luxuries. And yet, they are too seldom given and enjoyed. The reason why? Few people believe they know how to give a foot massage. No need to be tentative – it’s easy to give a fabulous foot massage if you just know the basics.

A great benefit of foot massage is that you can give one to yourself. Or, you can give one to someone else. Regardless of whether it’s foot massage done solo or with partner, getting started begins with preparing the feet for a treat.

Get ready for your foot massage by thoroughly washing the feet. You may wish to soak the feet first, getting them relaxed and ready to massage. Soaking feet in Epsom salts or dead sea bath salts is an excellent choice. Both contain properties that are relaxing and therapeutic to tired and weary feet.

After soaking and cleaning, dry the feet thoroughly with a soft towel. Then choose one of many foot or massage oils to use for your foot massage. Pour a small amount of massage oil into your hand and begin to massage the oil into one of your feet. If you’re lucky, someone else will do this for you so you can totally relax and enjoy the massage for the sumptuous treat it is!

Generally, starting at the top of the foot is the best place to start. Working about the toes, it’s best to use slow, smooth, and gentle motions to work the oil in as you progress with the massage. Then gradually move toward the ankles. Use your thumbs to massage the bottom of the foot as you move toward the ankles. Alternate pressure – light pressure, then firm – working to relax the feet and get circulation flowing.

Don’t forget to massage the soles of your feet as well. Because soles can be a bit ticklish, you’ll want to use firm, deliberate, stroking which will feel relaxing instead. As you did earlier, begin at the toes and work toward the heels, moving back to the toes again, this time working the sole as you go. You can repeat these motions as long as you like. A foot massage can be an extended pleasure if you desire.

As a romantic twist, you can turn a relaxing foot massage into a sensual massage that can set the tone for a romantic evening. By dimming the lights, or working by candlelight, you can enhance the environment and set a sensual atmosphere. You might consider using a massage oil candle which gives you two-in-one benefits.

Light the massage oil candle as you soak, letting the massage oil melt. Then use the melted oil to give your foot massage. Let the candle continue burning, emitting light fragrance and melting further massage oil, all adding to the romantic ambiance as you give your partner an exquisite foot massage, and you one back in return.

Regardless of how you give your foot massage, your feet will unquestionably thank you. Enjoy!

Lee Dobbins asked:


Foot Massage or Reflexology as it is sometimes known has it origins in China and has been around for more than 3,000 years and is normally used to help prevent or cure many different ailments that affect us.

However there is some possible evidence (cave drawings in Egypt) that foot massage dates as far back as Ancient Egyptian times.

The principles of foot massage involves the meridian network which connects all the tissues, organs and cells in a persons body and each organ in the body is connected to a specific area (reflex point) on the foot through the 300 nerves that run around the body. A Reflexogolist (Foot Masseur) is trained to place pressure on these different meridians (energy lines) in either the sole or side of a person’s foot and determine what is causing their particular illness and then carrying out the necessary treatment to rectify it.

By applying pressure to these reflex points on a person’s foot a Reflexogolist is able to stimulate the activity of a person’s internal organs as well as improve both the circulation of blood and lymph’s around the body.

Although in the modern Western world the foot is merely seen as a part of the human body comprising of bones, ligaments and joints and is therefore not seen as being essential to western medicine.

Yet over the last few years foot massages (reflexology) has grown in popularity and is generally now accepted as an alternative form of health treatment. Many people who enjoy a foot massage believe it can not only cure colds and minor ailments but can also help in the treatment of more serious ailments as well such as liver dysfunction, problems with constipation, skin allergies and also chronic headaches.

As with most Oriental medical techniques with are now readily available reflexology (foot massage) is an holistic treatment and it concentrates rather on treating the person as a whole rather than just the symptoms of one particular kind of ailment.

Whilst many Western medicines offer a person the chance of a speedy recovery from whatever ails them, with reflexology the recovery is slow and gradual. It is therefore important that any one undertaking this form of treatment will need to have several visits to their Reflexogolist in order to strengthen their body and bring it back into balance.

The cost of each session of reflexology can differ quite substantially from as little as $40 up to as much as $100 (so be prepared to spend a little money as the course of treatment can soon add up).

However for many people the cost for good health is well worth the money spent on having a session of foot massage (reflexology). When in fact they could have spent just as much money on either prescription Western drugs or having to have invasive surgery to treat the problem.

Tanyang Lee asked:


Massage is probably one of the oldest therapies that have mostly been used to relieve us of aches and pains. In this space, we will discuss the magic that massage does to our body and how we can experience it with the help of foot massagers or other massagers.

From time immemorial, people have used and got benefited from this therapy. And such is the magic of body massage, that it has become the subject of research for many a doctor, scientist and therapist. It has also given rise to the demand for massage chairs, foot massagers online and various other massaging devices.

Body massage has been divided into various segments as per the parts of the human body. There is head massage, body massage (that includes the back, the torso, the neck and the shoulders), hand massage and foot massage. Foot massage can be best done with a device called foot massagers.

There are different kinds of foot massagers available. Since our feet carry the whole burden of the body, therefore it does a world of good to them when they are provided these few moments of relaxation and pamper. And there is nothing like having some wonderful minutes spent in foot massage at the end of every day, just when you are about to retire for the day.

This will not only take all the aches and pains away from your legs, but will also help you to relax better and sleep soundly. Foot massage can also help you dissolve all your worries and tensions and open up to more challenges and get creative when solving your problems.

Graham williams asked:


Because of the different influences in massage therapy, there are many variations in techniques, but all these different techniques, still offer the same health benefits. The Swedish and Ayurvedic massage both have very different origins and styles, but they still contribute a lot to achieve a healthy and relaxed body.

With so many different kinds of massage therapy programs available today, it has made it difficult for people to choose which one is for them

The Swedish Massage, which is often called the classic or traditional massage. This is the most common massage therapy method and it is what most people usually prefer. The long and flowing strokes characterize this method, and it is ideal for relaxing muscles, improving joint flexibility and aiding in better circulation.

The first stroke is known as effleurage, this involves a long gliding stroke from the neck down to the base of the spine or from the shoulder down to the fingertips. It is also done on the limbs with all strokes directed toward the heart to aid blood and lymphatic flow. A therapist would normally use there whole hand or a thumb pad to do this.

Next is petrissage, this consists of the gentle lifting of muscles, then rolling and squeezing them, while applying a gentle pressure. This helps to enhance deeper circulation, it also increases circulation which in turn eliminates toxins from muscle and nerve tissue.

The third technique friction, is the most forceful one and uses deep circular movements using fingertips. it is applied near bony areas and joints, it relaxes the muscle fiber which in turn enhances flexibility in muscles and joints.

Last of all, a therapist will use vibration or shaking, this would normally entail the pressing of hands on the back or limbs and shaking in a vigorous motion for a few moments. Again this is used to improve circulation and is beneficial to people with low-back pain.

The Ayurvedic massage originated from India and the aim of this method is to create harmony and balance within the individual. It is worth noting that this method is renown for removal of toxins and rejuvenation of the body.

Ayurvedic massage uses specific oils that suit your dosha. One such, is the Abhyanga-Garshana which comprises of skin brushing followed by an oil massage. Udwarthanam which is a slimming massage that uses herbal powders and the Ayurvedic foot massage which is a deep massage where the therapist uses his feet.

Now you have enough knowledge on both Swedish and Ayurvedic massage, it is up to you to choose between the two which best suits your style of relaxation. Remember both massages having unique qualities and techniques, the choosing part can be a little tricky though, so if you are still undecided why not try both?

Juliet Cohen asked:


Reflexology, also called zone therapy. Reflexology is the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hand with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. it is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with a premise that such work effects a physical change to the body. Reflexology is growing increasingly popular as both as a complement to other treatments and as preventive measure across Europe and Asia. Reflexology seems to be a variation of acupressure, with its notion that there are correspondences between special pressure points.

In reflexology, points and areas on the feet, hands, and ears correspond to specific organs, bones and body systems. Practitioners access these points on the feet and hands (bottom, sides, and top) and the ear (both inside as far as the finger can reach and outside) to affect organs and systems throughout the entire body. Reflexology and acupressure are both “reflex” therapies in that they work with points on one part of the body to affect other parts of the body. While reflexology uses reflexes that are in an orderly arrangement resembling a shape of the human body on the feet, hands, and outer ears.

Acupressure uses over 800 reflex points that are found along long thin energy lines called meridians that run the length of the entire body. Reflexology is also used for post-operative or palliative care. In general terms the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body they are an easy way to interrupt the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body’s equilibrium. Reflexology is a complement to standard medical care. Reflexology sessions in general last from 30 minutes to an hour. It is a clothed session with only the removal of shoes and socks as a requirement.

It should not be construed as medical advice. It should not be a replacement to medical help. Please use it wisely. We care about your safety. There are many variations of reflexology and many names for these variations, including Zone Therapy, Vacuflex, and Vita Flex. Common criticisms of reflexology are the lack of central regulation, accreditation and licensing, the lack of medical training provided to reflexologists, and the short duration of training programmes.

Juliet Cohen asked:


Foot massage is one of the most unbelievably relaxing. Foot massage is a great thing. Foot reflexology is “pressure therapy” and involves applying focused pressure to certain known reflex points located in the foot to cure or prevent disease. Foot reflexology is based on the premise that our nerve zones or reflex points go from the bottom of our feet to the top of our head, encompassing all vital organs on the way. Thai Foot Massage is a massage of the lower legs and feet. Thai Foot Massage stimulates these points to promote general health and well-being. Thai Foot Massage takes it’s origins from China art. thai massage balances the elements of the mind and body, while thai foot massage stimulates the internal organs, giving the receiver an holistic treatment.

There are various creams and oils that can be used for a foot massage. However, we recommend the use of essential massage oils to achieve an ultimately relaxing foot massage. Giving a foot massage only requires a pair of feet and someone to give the massage. Oil or lotion can be used, but it’s not necessary. A foot soak with a cup of Epsom salts dissolved in a gallon of warm water is a wonderful way to de-stress before you begin the foot massage. Dry thoroughly, including between your toes. Try to give equal attention to both feet, as the body abhors asymmetry. There are many foot massage techniques releif feet. Stroking massage techniques stimulates the blood vessels in your feet and promotes gentle heat. Hold the foot in your hands and begin to massage the top surface of the foot.

Use your thumbs in a slow, firm stroking motion, starting at the toes and moving up to the ankle. Another massage techniques ankle rotation. Firstly, gentle move the ankle side to side to loosen the ankle joint. Rotate the foot clockwise and anticlockwise 3 or 4 times to relax the foot from the ankle joint, reversing the directions will calm and de-stress your senses. Kneading massage technique uses the knuckles at the second joints. “Knead” the area like dough with large pressing, rotating movements. Other foot massage technique is pivoting. Gently hold the foot in you hand and use the other hand to massage the sole of the foot with your thumb. Pivoting can be a very relaxing especially if you vary the amount of pressure being applied to the ball of the foot.

Foot Massage Tips

1. Soak your feet for about 10-15 minutes in lukewarm water with a few drops of peppermint or lavender oil.

2. Stroke the foot from the cords towards the fingers, first gently then gradually increasing the pressure.

3. Oil or lotion can be used, but it’s not necessary.

4. Massage in circular motion using your fingers and your thumb on the sole of the foot.

5. Again massage the sole in circular motion using your thumbs and fingers.

6. Wipe off the excess oil or cream.

Scott Meyers asked:


Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. In most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease, not a last resort like many people see it today. Even in technically advanced countries, such as China and Japan, there is an appreciation of effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine and alternative treatments. We could learn a lot from the practice of reflexology and how it can benefit our lives.

Reflexology is a complimentary protocol that works in conjunction with other techniques. It is particularly popular among naturopathic and holistic practitioners. Although the techniques have been proven to be beneficial for a multitude of problems, your reflexologist cannot diagnose or claim to cure any diseases. Reflexology is meant to bring your body to a state of well-being. Only in this state is your body able to heal itself. When your body is full of toxins, your immune system is severely compromised, making you much more likely to succumb to sickness. Reflexology can help prevent that from occurring if used on a regular basis.

One of the most common uses for reflexology is for stress relief. In our fast-paced society today, everyone is looking for a way to unload stress. The effects of stress have been studied for quite some time and it is known that if you do not release stress from your body on a regular basis, it will eventually wreak havoc on your body in the form of one of many different sicknesses or diseases. Stress is a silent killer.

In addition to its uses as a stress reliever, reflexology is also a beneficial tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and to stimulate the nervous system. Many people with illnesses such as allergies, chronic sinus problems, acid reflux, migraines, PMS, menopause, insomnia, fertility problems, fibromyalgia, depression and even arthritis report significantly improved conditions as a result of the treatment.

So how does reflexology work? By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology enhances blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. It is not a complicated technique, although it does have to be learned. And some even say that intuition plays a part in the techniques.

Once you have made the decision to visit a trained reflexologist, you may be wondering what you can expect from him or her. Your therapy session will begin with a questionnaire or one-on-one question and answer session. The purpose of these questions is to get your personal history and determine where your therapy should be most concentrated. For example, if you are going in suffering from frequent migraines and neck pain, your reflexologist will concentrate on the areas of the feet and sometimes the hands, in areas that deal with the head and neck. Of course, you will be treated in all areas of the feet. In order to bring your body to a state of well-being, you must detoxify your organs and this is what happens during reflexology therapy.

Rohit Chopra asked:


The Chinese believe that the feet contain nerve endings that connect to every part of the human body, and that a foot massage will help to provide relief to all parts of the body. Thus, this culture has used foot massage to bring about better health in people as well as to re-energize them.

Different to the Western Method

The Western world is a bit different in many ways, and feet may hurt due to an ill-fitting pair of shoes, through too much of walking or a bit of each. Even so, there are foot massages available that help provide relief to the aching feet, and the sources for these include pedicurists, masseuses and even inserts for shoes, which are often touted as a form of foot massage.

Most often, the foot massage is best given by a massage therapist or a masseur at a massage parlor, where he or she will knead the tension and swelling right out of the feet. Whichever method you use to get a foot massage, there is no getting around the fact that what the Chinese have known for centuries are also now being incorporated in the modern foot massage techniques as well.

To reduce swelling and to relax the feet, it is often necessary to soak the feet in a solution of water and Epsom salts or herbs prior to the treatment. You should also expect the masseur to use lotions or creams, so that there is minimum amount of friction during the foot massage. The process will involve kneading and tapping, as well as rolling the hands and knuckles over the feet and ankles.

Without a doubt, the complete foot massage will provide a relaxation that is effective and complete. There are many different forms of the techniques that will suit different types of foot soreness and address other ailments related to the feet. It will provide much relaxation and refresh the body so that aches and pains are virtually eliminated.

The art of foot massage is also exemplified in reflexology, which works by complementing the treatment of feet with massage techniques, and helps in healing congestion in related parts of the body. It works by stimulation as well as application of pressure to the feet, and increases the circulation. Best results are obtained when the reflexologist applies pressure to specific points on the feet that can affect corresponding organs in the body.

Jeff Foster asked:


A foot massage is one of the most delightful things that you will ever experience.

You may have has an exquisite back massage at some point during your life; however, until you have experienced a superior a foot massage then you simply do not know what you are missing. Your feet carry you everywhere you want to go. The stress and strain that is applied to your feet on a daily basis is unbelievable. Your feet deserve the extra pampering you can provide, so the next time that you decide a back massage is just the thing you need, think about getting a foot massage instead.

With the feet, it is easy to get a massage. You can either give your self a soothing foot massage or you can ask your friend or lover to do it for you. A foot massage can also be turned into a sensual event if it is something you are enjoying with your partner. Begin by thoroughly cleaning your feet. A warm soak in Epsom salts, peppermint oil or lavender is the perfect way to get started.

Then dry your feet thoroughly making sure to spend the extra time to dry between each toe. As soon as your feet are dry select a scented foot oil to apply to your feet. Support the foot you are working on with one hand, pour a small amount of oil into your other hand and gently begin to massage the oil into your foot. Of course, this is a lot more fun if your partner will provide this foot treat for you.

Using your thumbs, begin on the top of the foot at the toes and use slow, firm, and stroking motions to move upwards towards the ankle. This movement is a little bit like using your thumbs to knead bread. Remember to vary the pressure that you use as it provides a more enjoyable experience and helps to get the blood flow circulating.

Once you reach the ankles, then retrace your steps back to your toes. Again, using very slow, stroking motions you as are working to provide the delectable foot massage. Pressure applied to the toes should be less than that which is applied to the ankle. Use this same slow action from the toes to the ankle and back again making several passes.

Next, with your hand in a cupped position, gently sit the heel of your foot in your hand. With your free hand holding the top of your foot gently rotate your foot slowly from side to side, then begin to rotate your float clockwise and counterclockwise using slow and deliberate movements.

Repeat these motions several times in order to relax your feet and ankle joints. Remember to use slow and gentle movements so that you do not put additional strain on your joints. It would be awful to end up injuring yourself while trying to enjoy the something as simple as a foot massage.

When you finish rotating the foot be sure to pamper the soles of your feet. The soles of your feet take a real pounding and so the extra attention you can provide will reap big rewards. Beginning at the base of the toes and working towards the heel of the foot use a kneading and stroking motion to provide relief for the soles of the feet.

Taking the time to enjoy a gentle foot massage or to exchange one with your partner is a thing of beauty. It can provide a great deal of stress reduction, it can improve circulation and blood flow to your feet and it can help you to genuinely relax after a long day at work. Your feet have a tough job and after all they deserve a bit of pampering too. A foot massage is something that you really should not live another day without experiencing. Enjoy!