Non-invasive Therapy
Reflexology is
a technique that is uses focused pressure through massage on certain parts of
the body. Traditionally, reflexology is performed on the hands or feet but it
can also be used on the face and ears. The therapy is based on the theory that
zones and reflex points in the area that is being massaged correspond with
various parts of the body, both internal and external.
The intent of
reflexology is to return the body to an efficient level of homeostasis; meaning
the body's normal processes can return to their optimal levels of efficiency.
The reflexes in the targeted part of the body that is being manipulated work to
stimulate the natural energy that travels along the nervous system – this helps
to remove any obstructions in the corresponding areas.
The parasympathetic
nervous system is one of two main areas of the autonomic nervous system and is
responsible for the regulation of unconscious bodily activities like salvation,
lacrimation, waste generation, digestion, and sexual arousal. When certain reflex
points are massaged during a reflexology session it helps to remove blockages in the natural energy
channels which then initiates a parasympathetic reaction within the body to aid
in the removal of stressors and improve
circulation thus realigning the body's internal systems to optimal function.
Complimentary Treatment
It has been
found that the types of people that look into experiencing reflexology
treatment are:
-
Generally
more health conscious than the average individual,
-
More
open to alternative forms of healing, and
-
Conscious
of the fact that the benefits of treating and minimizing stress through various
therapies will actually minimize other physical symptoms.
It is highly
recognized that using reflexology in conjunction with other types of therapy
can be extremely beneficial. Incorporating this non-invasive method of care
into a personal wellness plan is a great way to maximize the benefits of having
an individual health care program. For instance, cancer fighters often utilize
reflexology to minimize the side effects of chemotherapy treatments like
anxiety, nausea and pain.
Reflexology
has been shown to be an effective method help ease symptoms of the following
conditions:
In addition to
the above mentioned conditions, reflexology can address a number of other
health concerns, however the most beneficial elements are:
A pleasant side effect of reflexology
Generally
reflexology is administered in a quiet, relaxing setting where the patient is
seated and the
therapist can have face-to-face contact. The
advantage of this contact also provides a pleasant side effect to the patient–
conversation.
A lot of the
time, people that are struggling with a condition or ailment have reservations
about discussing their problems to their friends and family. The general rule
of thumb is that the patient must ‘put on a brave face' and often, people find
that they have no one to confide in about their worries and troubles.
Conversation
is encouraged during therapy and the reflexologist, although not a psychologist,
is a good listener. The patient may find an outlet during therapy where they
can express their emotions in a non-judgmental environment, expressing their thoughts
and feelings to the therapist can be a means of
therapy all its own.