Zone 1 aligns with the left and right center of the body, and zone 5 aligns with the left and right sides of the body. The body is divided into 10 zones that run from head to foot. There are different theories about the exact way that reflexology works, but the main concept of all is that different areas of the feet are linked to specific body parts, and that putting pressure on one area of the foot can have an effect on the organ that it corresponds with.Īccording to zone theory, a foot is divided into five zones that run from toe to heel: The big toe is zone 1, and the pinky toe is zone 5. Start with the thumb and hold for 1 to 2 minutes before moving to the next finger and so on until you reach your pinkie, then switch hands and repeat. It can be as simple as wrapping one hand around each finger of the opposite hand, one at a time. It’s easy to do any time you feel stressed, even at your desk. You may get some benefits from just 5 minutes of reflexology on your hands. You can get special socks that have a map of all the pressure points to use as a guide.
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You might also ask your reflexologist for tips on how to do it yourself between visits. You might have a reflexology session only occasionally, as a regular “tune-up,” or every week for a set period of time if you’re using it to help with a condition. Afterward, you could feel energized or have a sense of calm. At some point, you might feel so relaxed that you fall asleep, or you could feel a rush of emotions as energy moves through your body. Sessions are usually 30 or 60 minutes long. They might return to certain pressure points a second time, but they'll cover the entire area during the session, not just the points connected to any trouble spots you might have. Next, they’ll put mild to moderate pressure on one foot at a time using different techniques. Many reflexologists will begin by gently smoothing oil or cream on your feet. You’ll keep your clothes on, but wear something comfortable so you can better relax. You might sit in a reclining chair or lie down on a massage table. You’ll probably be in a soothing, spa-like setting with soft music, low lights, and possibly aromatherapy. This is also the time to ask any questions you have. Your answers will help them decide whether to work on your feet, hands, ears, or a combination of those. To get to know you and make sure that reflexology is right for you, the therapist will start by asking questions about your health, what you eat, your lifestyle, and any conditions you have. What You Can Expect During a Reflexology Session
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Researchers reviewed 17 studies of the psychological benefits of the therapy and found that it boosted feelings of well-being and made it easier for people to manage their conditions.
Some people with medical conditions find that they feel less pain and discomfort if they have less stress, and reflexology may help with that. But the benefits might go deeper if you have certain health issues. Reflexology may help you feel less stressed, more relaxed, and more energized. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it’s not an alternative to it, and reflexologists don’t diagnose or treat illnesses. Like those other therapies, though, reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. And while reflexologists do use their hands, it isn’t a form of massage. But those therapies use points all over your body, not just on your feet, hands, and ears. The way reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside is a bit like acupuncture and acupressure.
The theory is that this eases stress, and that helps your body work better. Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better.