Hand And Foot Reflexology: A Timeless Therapy For Modern Ailments

Do you know our hand and foot have specific points that correspond to different organs and different glands of the body? When the pressure is applied in these zones strategically, a lot of medical problems can be addressed, including chronic pain, along with a wide range of other benefits. The positive outcome gained is across a range of symptoms that are improved with the reflexology procedure. There are many forms of this treatment, and they vary in length of session, pressure and frequency. This refined zone therapy was developed by an American physicist. In the early twentieth century, William Fitzgerald theorized that the body could be divided into 10 vertical and equal zones. Manipulation at the periphery of these zones exhibits effects on physiopathological conditions elsewhere corresponding to the same vertical zone.

The Mechanism Of Action Explored

The therapeutic modality originating from ancient Chinese, Indian and Egyptian techniques works on the concept of zone analgesia, and an American masseuse Eunice Ingham developed the maps of the reflex points on feet and hands which form the basis of modern reflexology. This supportive therapy aids in improved blood circulation, which offers physiological effects and facilitates cell renewal. This powerful relaxation tool stimulates the zones that are linked to neurones or transmitters or networks of channels. Also, the touch therapy facilitates the release of serotonin, endorphins, neuropeptides and dopamine, which further contribute to the reduction of stress hormones and cortisol.

Alternative Medical Therapy – Who Should Opt For It?

This amazing procedure is much more than a foot massage or hand massage and is not limited to people who live a stressful life but suits best all those who are looking for relief from soreness, muscle pain or stiffness.

• If you are still wondering whether it is the right choice for you or not? Remember, it improves the flow of energy in the body and accelerates wound healing.
• Headache, backache, shoulder ache and allergies: it offers overall enhancement, as all these parts have a mapped zone in the feet and hand area to offer relief.
• This potent modality also finds its relevance in digestive issues, including bloating, constipation and indigestion, when the specific zone points mapping to the stomach and intestines are pressed.
• Whenever you are experiencing that your body’s natural rhythm is upset and you are unable to sleep properly and the quality of your sleep is disturbed. The procedure can improve the condition of insomnia.

What Benefits Can I Get From This Treatment?

The pressure massages, particularly those given on the soles of the feet, offer several benefits, with the thousands of nerve endings being manipulated during the treatment.

• The lymphatic drainage facilitated by the procedure helps in detoxification and improves the energy levels of the body.
• This stress-busting tool is extremely effective in reducing anxiety, depression and mood swings.
• The non-invasive modality helps in reducing blood pressure and improving the heart rate by improved blood circulation, which further facilitates improved tissue health.
• If you are suffering from chronic fatigue, reflexology will energize you and improve overall wellbeing. Owing to this, you will be able to sleep better and will have better cardiovascular health.

Hand vs Foot Reflexology: What Should I Choose?

Ideally there is no difference in the outcome, and either of these can be chosen. But yes, as hands and feet have different skin thickness, the pressure requirement on the foot, which is mostly calloused, is more, whereas the hand requires gentle manipulation.

• Also, the hand reflexology is preferred by those who feel ticklish on their feet and whose feet are sore or tender or injured. Hand reflexology, on the other hand, is comfortable and convenient.
• Next, the technique used to offer the session is different because the hand involves use of the thumb and fingers, whereas in the foot the pressure is offered with the hand and certain other tools to deliver the best outcome.
• Although both procedures are beneficial, the foot is known to exhibit a stronger impact on the internal organs of the body as compared to the hand, which, owing to sensitivity, can be manipulated by rubbing or tapping, offering gentler pressure and less sensitization of the zone.