What is Reflexology? Reflexology is an ancient form of therapy used by many different cultures throughout the world. The ancient Egyptians started practicing this technique around 4,000 years ago. In 1938, Eunice Ingham published her book "Stories the Feet Can Tell" and is responsible for the modern technique practiced today. Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet, hands and ears to specific reflex points. Our feet, hands and ears map our body, and by working those specific areas, this can ease stress and promotes healing by removing energy blockages to vital organs and body systems to promote healing, wellness and balance. Like massage, acupressure and acupuncture, Reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it's not an alternative to it, and reflexologists don't diagnose or treat illnesses. Reflexology Benefits Although Reflexology may help you feel less stressed, more relaxed, and energized, the benefits might go deeper. Some people with medical conditions find that they feel less pain and discomfort if they have less stress, and reflexology may help with that. 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. Reflexology can help with:      Stimulating nerves      Enhancing circulation      Elevating mood      Increasing the immune system      Eliminating toxins      Restoring balance and homeostasis      Increased energy      Breaking up energy blockages      Anxiety      Heart and Stroke patience recover faster      Ease pain during labor      Help relieve Arthritis pain      Relieve some symptoms of multiple sclerosis, like fatigue and uncomfortable skin sensations      Release and balance emotions      Help cancer patients be more comfortable      Improve sinus issues      Relieve back pain and help with neck injuries      Ease constipation and promote healthy digestion      Improve sleep What You Can Expect During a Reflexology Session To get to know you and make sure that reflexology is right for you, I will start by asking questions about your health, what you eat, your lifestyle, and any conditions you have. Your answers will help me treat your areas of concern. This is also the time to ask any questions you have. You'll be in a relaxing setting with soft music, low lights, and aromatherapy. If you have allergies, please let me know. You will lie down on a massage table with a pillow and blanket. This is a clothed session, so wear something comfortable so you can better relax. I will begin with mild to moderate pressure on one foot at a time using different techniques. I will return to certain pressure points as I work to see if areas have improved that I found congested along with the areas that you have discussed. Sessions are usually 30 or 60 minutes long. 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. Afterward, you could feel a sense of calm. 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. You may also ask me for tips on how to do it yourself between visits. How Does Reflexology Work? 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 a specific body part. Applying pressure on one area of the foot can influence the organ that it corresponds with. A theory that dates back to the 19th century suggests that reflexology works by stimulating the nervous system. Pressing on areas of the feet in a calming way stimulates the nerves there, which sends a message to the central nervous system. This helps to relax the body and has positive effects on your breathing, blood flow, immune response, and more. Another theory suggests that reflexology helps offset the way that your brain registers pain. When your feet are massaged, the relaxing sensations may help relieve stress and improve your mood, which may make you less inclined to perceive pain as deeply. Still another theory suggests that your body contains "vital energy" that is affected by stress. If you don't work to relieve stress, your body may not work as well as it should, which may lead to aches or illness. Reflexology is thought to help you maintain the flow of vital energy through your body.