In understanding what Reflexology is, you must understand what it is not. Reflexology is not foot massage. Foot massage is a rubbing and kneading of the foot using oil. albeit a simple technique using only the hands; Reflexology uses very precise reflex points generally without oil. Foot massage is directed at the foot while Reflexology directs itself to the entire body through the foot.
Reflexology is not only a science but also an art. It is a science because it is based on physiological and neurological study. It is an art because much depends on how skillfully the practitioner applies their knowledge as well as the dynamics occurring between the practitioner and client.
There are more than 7,000 nerve endings in the bottom of each foot and the number of capillaries is greater in the soles of the feet and palms of the hands than anywhere else in the body. When a nerve is stimulated, it is not an isolated incident; that stimulation travels to other areas of the body. The circulation within the capillaries provides for cell metabolism and growth as well as carring away waste products. A blood pressure study at the California Police Olympics that Reflexology while only applied to the feet lowered blood pressure.The dynamics of reflexology embraces all 11 systems of the body.
One of the ways that Reflexology works is by getting the body to relax. Relaxation of the mind and body eases tension and allows the healing to occur. This is not to say the the practitioner is a healer. The practitioner acts only as the mediator for the body and mind. The practitioner creates the opportunity through relaxation, for the client's own powers of healing to become effective. The client, of course, must be willing to heal.
More next time . . . . . . .
