For people who are looking for alternative ways to be healthy, reduce pain,
increase circulation, manage stress, and recover from surgery, reflexology might be the answer you are looking for. Reflexology is defined as, “the practice of applying pressure to the feet and hands utilizing specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oil, cream or lotion based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with a premise that such work effects a physical change in the body.”
Reflexology dates back to the ancient Egyptians and has been used throughout the centuries. However, Dr. Riley believed that reflexology passed from the Egyptians on through the Roman Empire. In 1917, doctors William H. Fitzgerald and Edwin Bowers published the book Relieving Pain At Home. They believed that "Humanity is awakening to the fact that sickness, in a large percentage of cases, is an error—of body and mind." This is the essence of reflexology, correcting the errors in the body to maximize health and vitality.
Another key contributor to the modern study of reflexology was Eunice D. Ingham, a physical therapist and supporter of the notion of reflexology. After publishing her book entitled The Stories the Feet Can Tell, Ingham traveled around the world giving lectures and treating people. Eventually, the word got around that reflexology techniques could in fact, relieve pain and help people heal from illness.
In addition to the already mentioned benefits of reflexology, research has also shown that reflexology can improve blood pressure and cholesterol levels and helps with psychological conditions like depression and aggression. Reflexology is also a benefit to all ages; children as well as the elderly can sit and relax while receiving a reflexology treatment.
Reflexology sessions generally last between 30 to 60 minutes and range in price depending on where you go and how long your session last. Usually reflexology treatment sessions are similarly priced with massage treatments. In addition, reflexology treatments should not be painful, so you can discuss with your reflexologist during your treatment and report if anything is painful. If you are pregnant or have a blood vessel disease, you should consult your doctor before having a reflexology treatment.
When you are ready, just sit back, relax, and enjoy some rest and relaxation.
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