Reflexology: A different Form Of Massage Therapy Numerous people do not realize it, but reflexology is a different form of massage albeit a very localized one to the feet. Reflexology is also incorporated into some other variations of massage including Thai massage, Shiatsu and other Ayurvedic massage techniques. In essence, reflexology is the application of pressure and massage to small fields of the feet in order to affect other areas of the body, like say, the heart or other internal organs. Reflexologists believe that all parts of the body have links with the feet. Reflexology sounds like a new, Third Age word, but reflexology is really an ancient art. Looking at ancient murals in burial chambers, it seems that reflexology was being carried out in Japan in 690 BC, in Egypt in 2330 BC and in China in 2704 BC. And why should it not have been? There is nothing more natural than to want a foot rub if you have been standing on your feet all day. This may begin with cleaning the feet to remove dust, perspiration and foot odour; followed by the application of sweetsmelling oils or powders; followed my the rub. As it happens, that is precisely the same sequence of activities employed in reflexology. This process is occasionally applied to the hands too and some individuals believe that it is soothing on the ears as well, but this is not true reflexology. Reflexologists maintain that the feet are linked to every organ and part of the body, so they can manipulate the other areas from the feet without having to handle them - a bit like using a remote control handset. They claim to be able to alleviate digestive disorders, backache, menstrual problems, headaches and the like, because our stress levels are controlled by the tension in our feet, which may be caused by tension elsewhere in the body as well. So, an instance may be: a bad back might cause the heel of your right foot to ache and if you can stop the heel of your right foot aching, your backache will disappear as well. However, if you have any medical conditions, you ought to tell the reflexologist before he or she starts. Pregnancy is also something you should notify them of. Not everybody in the Western world is convinced by the claims for reflexology in the same manner that they are not convinced about acupuncture, however it is not at all painful and is very soothing after standing up or walking all day. Having said that, a soothing foot rub or massage does help get the blood flowing out of the feet and legs and back to the heart, so it is frequently used in hospitals for patients recuperating from operations and for those who have spent a long time in bed. This form of massage is carried out fully clothed, except for shoes and socks, sitting in a comfortable chair and normally lasts 30-60 minutes. It is a firm favourite with women shoppers and shop assistants and fits into a lunch hour just nicely.
Owen Jones, the author of this article, writes on numerous topics, but is at present concerned with the Thai massage parlor video. If you have an interest in massage, please go over to our website now at Classes For Massage Therapy