Reflexology is a natural, non-invasive healing art that is based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears that correspond to every part of the body. The physical image of the body is mapped onto the feet in a logical, anatomical pattern—the toes represent the head, the ball of the foot represent the chest area, the soft part of the foot corresponds to the internal organs and the heel of the foot corresponds to the pelvic region in our body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes, Reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural functioning of the body. Reflexology helps to balance the physical, mental and emotional aspects of the whole body.
In reflexology, the body is divided into 10 longitudinal zones, which run the length of the body from head to toe. This is called “mapping the body.” Each finger and each toe represents the 10 zones that are used by the reflexologist to locate specific areas of the body. There are 7,200 nerve endings in each foot, 2,500 in each hand, and 435 in each ear that corresponds to every part of the body. It is the nerve endings in the hands, feet and ears that send the message to the brain about stress or pain found in the body during a reflexology session. The brain then responds by producing endorphins, the body’s natural pain reliever. The endorphins are then sent through the blood stream to the affected areas.
Reflexology is thought to have the following benefits: improves blood and nerve supply to the muscles, relaxes muscles spasms and tensions, promotes good muscle tone through nerve stimulation, improves the elimination system by cleansing the body of toxins and impurities, reduces stress, improves circulation, revitalizes energy, and stimulates creativity and productivity.
Source: Reflexology Association of Canada, Focus on Healing
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