Reflexology Pressure Points

Reflexology is an alternative medicine practice, which uses the application of physical pressure with the fingers to specific reflexology points on the hands and feet, with the aim of bringing about an improvement in the recipient's health. It functions on the premise that the hands and feet are made up of points which correspond to different organs of the body, and pressure applied to these reflexology points can bring about a beneficial change to the organs they correspond to. Although reflexology is not used as a diagnostic tool, it is recommended by many as a complementary therapy to aid in the recovery of a prevalent condition. Reflexology is believed to have been practiced in India, Egypt and China, though its introduction to the West is much more recent, credited to William Fitzgerald, in the year 1913.

Reflexology Zone Therapy

Reflexology is also referred to as Zone Therapy, and it's currently practiced to bring about relief for a number of health related problems. It aids in maintaining the body's natural equilibrium, and is a gentle, non-invasive procedure, that can promote relaxation. Reflexology therapy is used as a complementary practice to deal with a wide range of conditions, including, but not limited to the following:

• Back Pain
• Anxiety Symptoms
• Stress Related Conditions
• Sleep Disorders
• Allergies
• Migraines
• Cardiovascular Functions
• Diabetes

A practitioner will use a reflexology chart, which is like a map, that illustrates the reflexology points on the hands and feet that correspond to specific organs. In general, there are certain basic rules that govern the functioning of reflexology points, the most basic of which is that the left foot corresponds with organs, valves and ventricles on the left and vice versa for the right. Foot reflexology therapy is the most widely practiced, though reflexology pressure points exist on the hands as well as the ears. This method is also used in certain types of massage to promote relaxation and general well-being.

A reflexologist will, in a preliminary meeting, discuss the areas of your concern, and understand your lifestyle. In keeping with this information he or she will then use reflexology pressure points, to bring relief and aid in recovery. A typical session will last between 30 minutes and an hour. Hand reflexology pressure points and foot reflexology pressure points are used to promote the flow of healing energy through the body. A reflexologist will also take note of stress cues, which show up on the hands and feet such as calluses, corns, knobbly areas and bunions. These stress cues are used to assess the body's adaptation to stress. A good reflexology session should leave you feeling relaxed, and most people report an immediate improvement. In certain cases, some people find themselves feeling lethargic, tearful or nauseous - these are, however, transient in nature and believed to be part of the process of healing. Consistent treatments and sessions of reflexology can promote overall health and well-being, even if you don't suffer from a medical condition. As a result, the use of reflexology is often offered in combination with massage therapies for relaxation, however, reflexology does not use oils or lotions.

Reflexology corresponds closely with the alternative healing methods of acupressure and acupuncture, all of which focus on healing body energy or Qi, though the pressure points do not always correspond. Identifying reflexology points and learning the techniques and methods can help in dealing with everyday stress, and improve the overall quality of life. Much self study material is available in the form of books and DVDs, and these are inexpensive options to learn the art of reflexology and practice it to promote health and healing. Good luck!