Reflexology is a unique method of using the thumb and fingers to stimulate more than 7,200 nerve endings in each foot. These nerve endings correspond to all parts of the body, including organs and glands.
Stimulating the appropriate region is intended to eliminate energy blockages thought to produce pain or disease in the related areas. Reflexology is used to prevent, rather than cure, and is used to relieve a wide variety of ailments, such as stress and tension within the body.
Reflexology's benefits all work toward helping the body to heal itself by restoring balance to the vital energies.
Reflexology has a long history of promoting relaxation and healing. People of all ages can benefit from treatments. Reflexology can relieve stress and tension within the body. It improves circulation and lymphatic flow, and works to unblock nerve impulse pathways. These benefits all work toward helping the body to heal itself by restoring balance to the vital energies.
Some specific conditions where reflexology might be helpful are: headaches (including migraines), arthritis, high blood pressure, backache and sciatica, stress, allergies and sinus problems, carpal tunnel syndrome, constipation, insomnia, pre-menstrual syndrome and menstrual cramps.
Q: How often should I have a reflexology treatment?
A: Once a week is normal, an extreme case would be twice a week. The body needs time to normalize between treatments.
Reflexology also works wonderfully in conjunction with other body therapies. Again, you should wait about a week between therapies to avoid overloading the body.
Q: Can I do this at home?
A: Certain areas of the hands can be worked on, but it is rather awkward to work on your own feet. Some areas are hard to reach and it's difficult to relax. Still, your therapist can share some self-help reflexology points with you.
Reiki is a very specific form of energy healing, in which hands are placed just off the body or lightly touching the body, as in "laying on of hands." Its origin, Dr Mikao Usui, a Japanese seeker of spiritual truths, brought the Reiki method of healing into human awareness in 1922 after a deep spiritual experience. He is said to have begun teaching others after a serious earthquake hit Japan and he felt urged to spread his knowledge.
In a Reiki session, the practitioner is seeking to transmit Universal Life Energy to the client. The intention is to create deep relaxation, to help speed healing, reduce pain, and decrease other symptoms you may be experiencing.