The practice of foot reflexology dates back thousands of years ago from Egypt and China. Accounts vary but according to some findings, it existed anywhere between 3,000 and 5,000 years ago.
The principle behind it is simple. The soles of a person's feet are full of nerve endings that comprise a complex system of reflexology zones. Each zone connects to a different body part. By stimulating the proper reflex zones, it can effectively improve the functions of a person's vital organs and supplement the healing of any related illnesses and injuries. (Related: What is Reflexology? Health benefits of reflexology!)
Benefits of foot reflexology
Having a foot reflexology session doesn't just make one feel good; it's also tied to many health benefits, which range from improving circulation to relieving stress. Here are some ways that foot reflexology can improve a person's overall health:
- It promotes healthy lymph drainage. By slowly massaging the leg down to the foot, it moves the lymph fluids back to the lymph nodes where it can be transported to the rest of the body.
- It improves blood circulation. It does this by relaxing a person to open up blocked channels connected to vital organs in a person's body. By improving the blood flow, it speeds up one's recovery from injuries.
- It relieves pain. Neck, shoulder, back and leg pain can be alleviated by stimulating the corresponding reflex zones. Other types of pain that can be reduced are joint pains, chest pains and pain caused by kidney stones, AIDS, and chemotherapy.
- It boosts energy levels. Massaging the reflex zones of the adrenal glands, kidneys and thyroid sends energy to those respective areas of the body.
- It relieves stress and anxiety. Reflexology can be used to relax one's body. This reduces the buildup of stress and fatigue. Massaging the tops of one's toes produces serotonin, a hormone which also helps to alleviate stress and anxiety.
- It controls diabetes. Diabetes is often accompanied by numbness or tingling of the foot. By promoting blood circulation, reflexology helps minimize these symptoms and reduce blood sugar and glucose levels. Applying pressure to the reflex zone under the big toe relieves diabetes-related pain.
- It helps fight colds and flu. The big toe, the middle of each toe and an inch below the toes are the reflex zones of the nose, throat and lungs, respectively. Massaging these areas can aid in the recovery from minor ailments such as colds and flu.
According to reflexologists, foot reflexology alone does not directly heal the body of diseases but it instead puts the body in a relaxed enough state to supplement the healing process. When applied properly, it is effective in aiding the treatment of major diseases and minor conditions. For best results, you may consult with a health professional regarding the use of foot reflexology alongside other treatments.
If you want to learn more about reflexology and other therapies that support overall health, you can visit HealingArts.news.
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