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Reflexology - Time To Massage Your Feet

Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure to the feet or hands. Foot reflexology is the most common form of reflexology, but hand reflexology is also used. It is sometimes known as foot zone therapy or reflex zone therapy.

Reflexologists believe that areas (or zones) on the feet and hands correspond to other parts of the body. By putting pressure or massaging the right zones, blood circulation is meant to be improved in the reflex zone and the corresponding area. When the blood circulation in the area is good, the healing process is meant to be quicker.

What Can Be Treated with Reflexology?

Reflexology is being used to treat many different health problems. It is particularly useful in treating migraines, stress, neck pain, back pain, arthritis, digestive disorders and circulatory problems. It has also been used to treat problems like strokes, multiple sclerosis and angina. It is also meant to lead to a general sense of well-being.

Reflexology Treatment

The basic reflexology treatment will involved having your feet massaged by a reflexologist. The foot will be placed on the reflexologist's knee and he or she will massage all reflex zones, which are located in the sole of the foot. The reflexologist will then look at the toes, metatarsal bone, heels, ankles and surrounding bones. The reflexologist should massage in the foot in circular movements. If there is a medical problem, then the corresponding zone in the foot should be massaged first.

Who Performs Reflexology

No formal qualifications are necessary to practice reflexology. You can ask your naturopath or closest training centre for the names of people who can practice reflexology. Not all reflexologists will perform hand reflexology, so ask for people trained in hand reflexology if this is important to you. Some naturopaths will be trained in the practice of reflexology.

Reflexology techniques are also fairly easy to use at home, particularly if your aim is to promote general health, rather than treat specific problems. Books, videos and training courses will give you the techniques you need. However, it is better to have another person give you a reflexology treatment. It may be appropriate to learn with a friend, and then practice reflexology on each other's feet.

When Should You Do Reflexology

There are two reasons for seeking a reflexology treatment - to treat a medical problem or to improve general health. Many people will seek reflexology therapy when they have a medical problem. In this case, the amount of time necessary to treat the problem will depend on the seriousness of the problem and whether reflexology reveals any other health problems. To improve general health, it is recommended to spend 30 minutes to an hour a day on reflexology, with no more than five minutes on each reflex point. When there are health problems, more time may be spent on the corresponding reflex point.