Energy is sent flowing throughout the body with the applied pressure, which brings balance and deep relaxation in the individual. It also allows the body to heal in a natural way. The origins of reflexology date back to ancient times and it has a rich history. This complementary therapy has evolved considerably over the years. 

It has a wide range of methods and approaches in recent times. The West, as well as the East, have their own different styles of reflexology that are equally effective. Here we’ve listed the different methods employed in this discipline:

The Rwo Shur method

This method of reflexology is practised in many parts of Asia, such as China, Taiwan, and Singapore. It is a combination of techniques that involve applying pressure and thumb-sliding. Sometimes, small wooden sticks and knuckles are also used. 

The therapist uses cream while applying a very firm pressure, which allows a fast and effective flowing motion. The sessions in the Rwo Shur method of reflexology usually last about 30 minutes. More than relaxation, the focus is largely on stimulation. This method was developed by Father Joseph Eugster in Taiwan. 

The Swiss missionary saw the immense potential in this method after experiencing its benefits himself. He also believed that this simple therapy could help millions of needy people. With this belief, he began to treat and train many others in the Rwo Shur method.

The Ingham method

The Ingham method is the basis for most of the reflexology methods practised worldwide today. This method was pioneered and developed by Eunice Ingham in the early 1930s in America. She is considered the ‘mother of reflexology’ by most reflexologists. 

This method involves applying pressure with the thumb, also referred to as ‘thumb walking. The thumb or finger is bent and straightened. This is done while constant pressure is being applied across the area of the foot. In this method, the reflexologist uses talc instead of a cream. Sessions of the Ingham method generally lasts about an hour. 

However, this would depend entirely on the health of the client. The focus is on relaxing and balancing the systems of one’s body. A client’s tolerance level of pain is also taken into consideration by the therapist. 

New approaches

In recent times, western therapists have been exploring several other ways of reflexology. Acupressure points and concepts relating to energy therapies are being increasingly used within reflexology sessions. The basis of many of these new approaches is the ancient Chinese philosophies. 

Using principles like the ‘Five Phases Theory’ and ‘Yin/Yang’, the concept of holism is being taken a step further. Special oils and magnets are also applied to the reflex points. Many of the reflexologists use gentle holds as well. This is done to balance and encourage the flow of energy.

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Western reflexology

Massage and reflexology differ in their intent. If you happen to observe a reflexologist in action this is something that might not be readily discernible. It is quite similar to differentiating between a family doctor and a cardiovascular surgeon. In a way, they’re both physicians. They’re issued licenses under the same health department. The difference is in their work and their intent of work. 

You need to understand the main intent of classic Western techniques of massage. It is to relieve the tension within the body’s soft tissue. These techniques of massage can reduce pain, enhance circulation, and improve posture and structural function. The result is physical, emotional, and mental relaxation. The major focus during the sessions is on the points linked to various organs and glands in the body. 

There’s a mechanism reflexology relies on for enhancing the internal structures of the body. It is the systematic application of alternating pressure to the tissues of feet or hands. Reflexology takes a holistic approach. It treats the entire body as opposed to focusing only on the area in question. 

The sensory nerve pathways are stimulated during the sessions using very specific techniques. Messages are thus sent to the brain, which instructs different glands and organs to alter the release of chemicals.

The untrained reflexologists

Many therapists massage the feet by pressing their thumbs into certain areas occasionally. Most of them are not trained in reflexology. Reflexology sessions often involve the use of alternating pressure. This is a technique that ‘talks’ to the brain. In a way, it carries a greater possibility of the recipient feeling relaxed later. There’s an absence of alternating pressure in massage therapy. 

It doesn’t provide the kind of neurological environment necessary for the internal benefits. This neurological environment is not created in reflexology by applying deep pressure. If such pressure is applied, it would only cause pain to the recipient. The size of the nerve endings determines the corresponding effect on the intended body part. 

Many individuals like to undergo reflexology sessions at world-class resorts and spas. In many of these spas and resorts, a simple foot massage is passed off as reflexology. The recipients who realize this become quite vocal with their discontent. As these unpleasant incidents increase, experienced reflexologists are contacted for training the staff. 

This unethical practice of naming foot massage as reflexology must be stopped. If the staff is not trained in reflexology, it’s always better to call foot massage just that. This is the only way that the spa and resorts can avoid causing harm to their reputation.

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Reflexology appears quite similar to massage in some aspects. However, the massage therapist takes the muscles and tendons into consideration. He or she gives a massage to achieve the end result, which is easing pain in most cases. The reflexology practitioner focuses on the reflex points or maps of the body. Some amount of pressure is applied on these points to relieve certain conditions or illnesses.

The benefits

Improved circulation, reduction in stress, and relaxation are some of the benefits offered by reflexology. It also helps the body in achieving balance and improvement in the functioning of internal organs and glands. This is achieved in an entirely natural way. Some of the recent studies have shown that reflexology also helps in reducing back pain and PMS symptoms. 

Many individuals find this holistic therapy much more relaxing than a full body massage. Perhaps this is due to the fact that they don’t need to take off their clothes for the sessions. Another reason could be that all the work is done away from the head. There are more nerve endings in the hands, feet, and face. 

The reflexology sessions can be deeply relaxing. It is often very hard to describe. During the sessions, pressure is applied using the thumb or finger. It inches along with the reflex points on the client’s body. These points can also be referred to as zones. Pressure is only applied to the extent that feels comfortable to the client. For the best results, there must be good communication between the client and the reflexologist. 

Sometimes the results are apparent almost immediately. In many other cases, it may take three or more sessions to be effective. For example, let’s say you have a chronic, long term condition like arthritis. In this case, it would definitely take longer to bring your body into balance.

An inside work

There have been instances where people went for a reflexology session and got a foot massage instead. This is quite unfortunate as this is probably not what they were looking for. A foot massage is certainly useful, but it cannot provide the same benefits as reflexology. 

Massage lessens tension in muscles, improves circulation, and relaxes an individual’s body. Reflexology is more of an inside work job. Many clients of reflexologists have said that the sessions led to the overall well-being of their bodies.

Reflexology therapists are certified

In the United States, reflexologists have to go through 200 to 250 hours of training. This leads to their certification by the American Reflexology Certification Board. The process of training is different in other parts of the world. There are many different types of reflexology. 

One particular example is Gentle Touch Reflexology, in which the reflexologist adopts a more gentle approach. Others, like the Father Josef method, are more intense.

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The great toe and thumbs would constitute Zone 1. Your index finger and second toe on either side of your body would be a part of Zone 2. In this way, other parts of your body are placed under the remaining zones. Every part of your body that is within a specific zone can be accessed via its corresponding point. These points are located on your feet or hands. Now, here’s how reflexology works on a human body:

1. Reflexology works with the central nervous system

This theory is based on the research that was done by Sir Henry Head and Sir Charles Sherrington in the 1890s. They had started showing through their research that there’s a certain neurological relationship between the skin and internal organs. It was also observed by them that the whole nervous system adjusted to a stimulus. 

According to the theory, a calming message could be sent from the peripheral nerves to the central nervous system. This was to be done by applying pressure to feet, hands, or ears. Once the message was sent, it signalled the body to adjust the tension level. 

This process brings the internal organs and their systems into an optimally functioning state. Besides, it enhances blood supply and helps in overall relaxation. The process also positively affects the respiratory, circulatory, endocrine, neuropeptide, and immune systems.

2. Reflexology lessens pain by reducing stress and improving mood

There’s another theory called the ‘Neuromatrix Theory of Pain’. It explains how reflexology can help in relieving an individual’s pain. The theory suggests that pain is a subjective experience, which is created by the brain. It is the response of the brain to the sensory experience of pain. However, it can also work independently of the inputs given by the sensory organs. 

The brain can also create the experience of pain as a response to cognitive or emotional factors. According to the neuromatrix theory of pain, reflexology may reduce stress and improve an individual’s mood, thereby reducing pain.

3. Reflexology keeps the vital energy of the body flowing

Gate Control Theory is another theory that explains how reflexology can provide relief from pain. This theory has revolutionized the way pain is understood. Reflexologists can use this theory for providing relief to their clients during the sessions. The gate control theory also recognizes that there is ‘vital energy’ in the human body. This is also known as ‘qi’, pronounced as ‘chee’, in Chinese traditions. 

In the yogic traditions of India, it’s called ‘prana. If stress is not addressed, it leads to congestion of this vital energy. This can certainly cause inefficiencies in the body, leading to various illnesses. Reflexology can help in maintaining an unobstructed flow of your body’s vital energy. This is good for the overall well-being of your body as well as your mind.

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Reflexology isn’t a form of massage. Just like acupuncture and acupressure, it is complementary to medical treatments. One thing to be kept in mind is that it is not an alternative to traditional care. Reflexologists don’t diagnose and treat all illnesses. Reflexology may relieve you from stress, and make you feel more relaxed and energized. 

The actual benefits of it might go deeper though. Especially if you have certain health issues. Some individuals with certain medical conditions find that their pain is lesser with reduced stress levels. This is exactly what reflexology does. It helps people get a significant amount of relief from their stress. Here are a few other common conditions that can be relieved using reflexology sessions:

1. Stress and anxiety

During the reflexology sessions, pressure is applied gently to reflex points on the feet. These points correspond to different parts of the body. Nerve endings in the feet are unblocked by reflexologists using special massage. This helps in boosting circulation and re-balancing the endocrine and lymphatic systems. 

In this way, a state of calmness is induced throughout your body and mind with the help of reflexology. This greatly reduces your anxiety and stress levels.

2. Pain during labour

Reflexology can optimize a pregnant woman’s emotional and physical health. The reflexologists also provide general lifestyle advice for women during their pregnancy. This form of natural therapy helps expecting mothers focus more on their growing babies. 

Reflexology does this by helping them take some time away from their busy lives. It gives them the required time and space for this purpose. This particular aspect of this holistic natural therapy must not be underestimated. Pregnant women are also given time to clear their minds, think, and talk about their feelings during reflexology sessions. 

Women can seek reflexology sessions for support with regard to common conditions that arise during pregnancy. They include back pain, anxiety, constipation, and many others. It helps them prepare their body for the birth of their baby.

3. Arthritis

The University of Portsmouth conducted research by looking into reflexology as a painkiller. This research observed how reflexology can help decrease pain sensations. It studied how this holistic therapy caused the body to release certain chemicals that reduced the pain. 

Participants were found to have a higher pain threshold and had the ability to withstand pain longer. This couldn’t have been possible without the reflexology treatment. It clearly pointed out the fact that reflexology is an effective painkiller and was useful in treating arthritis. 

This form of holistic natural therapy not only relieves pain but also improves circulation and sleep in an individual. Reflexology sessions certainly put individuals in good stead to deal with arthritis in an effective way. 

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Use in traditional Chinese medicine

Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese belief in vital energy or ‘qi’. The word ‘qi’ is pronounced as ‘chee’. According to this belief, qi flows through every individual on this planet. Whenever a person is feeling stressed, his or her body is blocking qi. 

This causes a certain imbalance in that individual’s body, which leads to an illness. The purpose of reflexology is to maintain the flow of qi throughout the body. After all, this is what keeps it balanced and free from diseases or illnesses. According to Chinese medicine, different body parts are linked through pressure points on the body. 

Reflexologists make use of the maps of these points located on the hands, feet, and ears. This is done to determine the point where they must apply pressure. Their touch sends the qi flowing through the individual’s body until it reaches the place that requires healing.

Other theories

In the late 19th century, British scientists discovered that nerves connected the skin and internal organs. They also found that the entire human nervous system adjusts itself to outside factors. This includes touch. The central nervous system can be calmed with the touch of a reflexologist. Just like any other form of massage, it results in relaxation and several other benefits. 

Many others believe that pain is created by the brain as a subjective experience. There are times when the brain reacts to physical pain. However, in several other cases, the brain’s creation of pain is a response to mental or emotional distress. It is believed by some reflexologists that this form of holistic natural therapy reduces pain through a calming touch. It helps in relieving stress and improving a person’s mood. 

Another belief used by some to explain the working of the reflexology is the ‘Zone Theory’. According to this theory, the human body comprises 10 vertical zones. Each of these zones has different body parts and it corresponds to certain toes and fingers. Zone theory practitioners believe that they can access body parts in a zone by touching these fingers and toes.

What research says

Studies that have been done on reflexology are not sufficient enough. Many experts feel that the studies that have been done until now lack quality. Additionally, a review from 2014 concluded that reflexology is not an effective treatment for any medical condition. The fact remains that reflexology certainly has some value as a complementary natural therapy. 

It helps in reducing symptoms and improving an individual’s quality of life. With the massage of certain areas of the feet, one can certainly get much relief from stress or discomfort. A study funded by the National Cancer Institute was conducted in 2011. The experts studied how reflexology treatments would affect 240 women with advanced breast cancer. 

All of them were undergoing medical treatment for their disease. The study found that reflexology was instrumental in reducing some of their symptoms. It was also reported by the participants that reflexology had improved their quality of life.

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Regardless of the opinions that people have about reflexology, it is becoming increasingly popular. Many people see it as an excellent means of maintaining natural health and well-being. It is now available in many hospitals in different parts of the world. Unfortunately, it still has many sceptics and there are several wrong beliefs about reflexology. Here, we’ve tried to dispel some common myths about this discipline:

Myth 1: Reflexology is just a foot massage

There’s no denying that massage is used during reflexology sessions, but that’s just a part of the treatment. Massage is mainly introduced in the closing part of the sessions by many reflexologists. It is not the only element used in this form of therapy. There are other soothing elements combined with massage in reflexology. 

It would be wrong to think that a trained Clinical Reflexologist just performs a foot massage. Pressure and stimulation is given to precise reflex points corresponding to the organs and systems of the body. This promotes natural healing and recovery in the individual.

Myth 2: Reflexology is nothing but a fad

This is probably one of the biggest myths surrounding reflexology. This discipline has been around in some form or the other for centuries. The earliest evidence can be found on an ancient Egyptian tomb, which is over 4,500 years old. This practice has been documented in several ancient civilizations. 

The modern form of reflexology was pioneered in the 1930s by Eunice Ingham. It has increased in popularity in recent times not because it’s a fad. Many individuals trust reflexology because it is a natural therapy that promotes health and well-being in them.

Myth 3: There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that reflexology works

Research studies done globally have pointed out several benefits of reflexology. These studies have concluded that it is effective in relaxing an individual. Besides, it reduces some psychological symptoms that result from anxiety, stress, and depression. 

Many other studies have shown positive results when reflexology was used for relieving pain. Of course, there’s more clinical research to be done to support the strong anecdotal evidence that has been provided. This evidence has been given by people who have reaped the benefits of reflexology.

Myth 4: Reflexology is painful

In order to get the desired result, firm pressure is used under some circumstances. This should not be painful to the individual. At times, the reflexologist has to maintain good communication with his or her client. The reflexologist must also be sensitive and responsive to prevent any discomfort. A subtle change in pressure or technique may be required to ensure a balance of reflexes and the client’s comfort. 

It would be imperative to use light and gentle pressure in the case of several clients. This is why it becomes important to take the medical history of the client into consideration. This must be done during the initial consultation so that the client’s individual needs could be understood.

Myth 5: A reflexologist can diagnose and treat illnesses or diseases

No professional reflexologist must attempt to prescribe conventional medicine. He or she must not even claim to have knowledge of conventional medicine. Unless the reflexologist is medically qualified, he or she must not prescribe conventional medications. It would be wrong to use reflexology as an alternative to seeking medical help. 

Reflexology is a holistic form of therapy. It focuses not on treating conditions but on individuals who suffer from them. There can be several interconnected factors that contribute to a person’s health issues. Reflexology only stimulates the healing processes in the human body to promote natural recovery.

Myth 6: Reflexology can harm people who’ve got cancer

Reflexology might have immense benefits for those who are undergoing treatment for cancer. It also benefits those who are recovering or living with a terminal illness. This form of therapy provides such individuals with physical relaxation and the comfort of touch. 

It leads to alleviation of anxiety and trauma in a cancer patient. Some of the specialist cancer centres actively promote complementary therapies, such as reflexology. Patients are advised to choose a reflexologist who is trained specially in Adaptive Reflexology for Cancer and Palliative Care.

Myth 7: Reflexology can only be performed on the feet

This is far from being true. A human body has reflex points that map the entire body. Such points are also located on other parts of the body, such as the hands and ears. Facial reflexology is also performed by some reflexologists. Sometimes, an individual can benefit more from auricular reflexology or by synergistically working on hands, feet, and ears. It depends entirely on the individual needs and preferences of the clients.

Myth 8: Reflexology is unsafe for pregnant women

There’s rarely any therapy that can be as wonderful in pregnancy as reflexology. This form of therapy aims to bring balance and harmony to both mothers and their babies. Some concerns are certainly raised as to whether it is appropriate to provide treatments during the first trimester. 

These concerns must be discussed between the client and the reflexologist. All the medical, psychological, and physiological aspects must be addressed before beginning the sessions.

Myth 9: Reflexology is not suitable for children and babies

Reflexology sessions for babies are different from those for adults. The sessions for babies have a much shorter duration and the techniques used are very gentle. Some of the reflexologists undergo special training in baby reflexology. They not only conduct sessions but also teach parents the required techniques. 

Most of these techniques are aimed towards relieving many of the discomforts that babies generally experience. Reflexology certainly benefits children in the same way as it is beneficial for adults.

Myth 10: Reflexology can’t be performed on those who are ticklish

This is a widespread myth. Many individuals who feel that reflexology is beneficial are also concerned about their sensitive feet. It must be understood that the pressure and techniques are applied in such a way that they’re not tickly. Demo sessions are given by some reflexologists to make their clients extremely confident. 

During such sessions, they get a feel of reflexology without any commitments to a full consultation. Some clients have a phobia about someone touching their feet. A reflexologist can also choose to perform hand or auricular reflexology on such clients. 

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