Reflexology is another type of massage which is supposed to relieve tension in the body. Another name for reflexology is zone therapy. Reflexology is more focused on the hands and feet. It is believed that by massaging certain points on the hands and feet that it will induce relaxation to other parts of the body. There is no unified theory of reflexology massage so there are different practitioners work reflexology massage and different ways.
But fear not, there is some common ground in the reflexology world. Reflexology targets specific points of the hands and feet. Massage movements stimulate specific reflexology points that are supposed to be connected to other organs within the body. Although reflexology has been around for centuries, no clinical studies have been performed to validate the benefits of this type of massage.
Reflexology has been practiced throughout the ages. It can be traced as far back as 2330 B. C. The Egyptians have left evidence of the connections of reflexology and their links to other parts of the body. One of the more noted researchers is Eunice Ingham. Her first reflexology works were published between 1938 and 1942 throughout the world.
The Ingham method of reflexology is used primarily for releasing tension in the body. This method is good for reducing stiffness from stress. Many health professionals agree that stress is one of the biggest contributors to health problems. This method of reflexology is used improve nerve and blood supply while also relieving stress.
There are no known side effects of getting a reflexology massage. Massage is focused on particular points in the hands and feet. These areas are massage, squeezed and pushed to relieve tension in the body.
Certification and reflexology massage is not mandated by any laws. There are certification programs and boards such as the Reflexology Association of America. Students must meet the minimum criteria in order to receive a certificate in this program. This includes book study as well as hands-on practice.
To attract students into studying reflexology, the Reflexology Association of America encourages that reflexology becomes a standard profession. This would be similar to other certification programs where graduates would be bestowed the right to practice this technique.
The organization does publish research related to reflexology. Most of the research published is regarding either pain control or not see a control. This research looks at the connections in the body for pain and not in control. There are some proponents that believe reflexology may also plans the body of toxins, increase blood circulation and could even assist in weight loss.
For further research, look for pain control or nausea control. Many times reflexology is used as part of a variety of treatments. Reflexology is good for reducing stiffness and tension in the body. It will be quite exciting to start to see some clinical studies being done for reflexology. There are many natural treatments that have yet to be validated by medical science.
Reflexology is a very interesting field. It has long-standing traditions which were initiated in Egyptian times. It is quite fascinating to see how much our predecessors knew about the relationships of the body. It seems that Western science has much to learn from these ancient practitioners.
