By Brandie Majeau
World Reflexology Week was recognized in 2024 from September 23 –
September 29. The week celebrated and highlighted the benefits of reflexology and
encouraged added awareness and understanding of the practice. Reflexology is found
and practiced in cultures worldwide and has been praised for providing a huge range of
health benefits and an overall improvement in well-being.
Reflexology is a type of massage that uses different amounts of pressure on the
feet, hands, and ears. It is based on the theory that the hands, feet, and ears are
connected to certain organs and body systems. In Canada, Registered Canadian
Reflexology Therapists provide this technique and method of care and maintain high
standards among practicing professionals.
Reflexology is a practice rooted in the ancient Chinese belief in “qi” (pronounced
“chee”), which can be described as “vital energy”. According to this belief, qi is a vital life
force that flows through each person. When an individual experiences stress, their body
may block the flow of qi, leading to an imbalance that can result in illness. Reflexology
tries to remove obstructions to the flow of qi throughout the body. This Chinese practice
believes that specific body parts are corresponded to distinct pressure points located on
the body. Reflexologists utilize maps of these points on the feet, hands, and ears to
determine where to apply targeted pressure. They believe that their touch can
effectively move energy throughout a person’s body, directing it to the area needing
healing. This practice is believed to restore balance and harmony within the body,
possibly alleviating various health concerns.
In the 1890s, British scientists made a discovery that completely changed the
understanding of the human body. They found that nerves connect the skin and internal
organs and play a crucial role in how the body responds to external stimulation. This led
to the understanding that the body’s entire nervous system is incredibly adaptable and
can adjust to outside factors, including touch. Reflexology harnesses the power of touch
to promote relaxation and overall well-being. Reflexologists focus their touch on calming
the central nervous system, leading to a range of benefits similar to those of traditional
massage techniques and alternative medicine.
Experts have discussed that the brain’s role in creating and interpreting pain is a
complex process. It is suggested that the brain can generate pain as a subjective
experience, and this can be influenced by physical stimuli as well as emotional and
mental distress. Reflexology may effectively reduce pain by providing a calming touch,
which can improve mood and alleviate stress.
Reflexology can also be traced to zone theory; this theory explains that the body
is divided into ten vertical zones, each corresponding to specific fingers and toes. By
applying pressure to these specific points on the hands and feet, practitioners believe
they can access and influence different body parts within a particular zone. This holistic
method reaffirms the interconnectedness of the body and the potential for healing
specific ailments through the touch of reflexology.
Overall, reflexology is a safe method of treatment. It is non-invasive and
comfortable to receive; it may help reduce stress, aid in digestion, help insomnia, and
reduce pain. However, it is always recommended that individuals do their own research
and speak to health professionals on their own. Local reflexologists can be found through various social media and local business searches.
More Stories
Tree staking can be done in autumn
Newbrook Library kicks-off Halloween
Is workplace bullying on the rise?