It may seem obvious to some, but not everyone understands the term “reflexology” and what it entails. According to The Reflexology Association Canada website, “Reflexology is the study of reflexes” [seems pretty straightforward]. “Reflexology therapies”, then, “are natural therapeutic methods derived from this study based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet that map to other parts, glands, and organs of the body.”
Similar to massage, reflexology is a “systematic practice” that involves a therapist putting specific pressure on precise areas of the feet. This, in turn, creates changes or reflexive responses in the internally connected areas. The map below explains the concept visually. These pressure points, or sensors, activate the parasympathetic nervous system (the silent mechanism in your body that tells your heart to beat or your eyes to blink). Activating this system leads to improved bodily functions, increased circulation of blood, and more rapid firing of the nervous system which opens up energetic pathways all over the body.
Although research is ongoing, professionals have already gathered a significant amount of proof pointing to verified benefits for those suffering from a wide range of ailments, including:
- Anxiety
- Diabetes
- Migraines
- Cardiovascular illness
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Pediatric illness
- Sinusitis
- Cancer
- …..and more!
Click here for more detail about the ailments that Reflexology can help.
One-hour reflexology appointments available through our online schedule.
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1. Reflexology Association of Canada. 2021. “What is Reflexology.” Retrieved March 31, 2021 from https://www.reflexologycanada.org/en/what-is-reflexology/
2. J Tradit Complement Med. 2015 Oct; 5(4): 197–206. Published online 2015 Sep 28. Retrieved March 31, 2021. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4624523/
Originally published April 1, 2021; Updated June 14, 2022.
