Wednesday, April 25, 2012

Reflexology Foot Massage Benefits - Taking a Closer Look

Reflexology is a form of therapy that involves rubbing, pushing, squeezing and massaging certain areas of the body in order to achieve certain benefits.

While reflexology can involve massaging the ears and hands, the most common area of the body that is massaged with reflexology is the foot.

With a reflexology foot massage, you can stimulate other parts of the body and enjoy a number of great health benefits.

What is Reflexology?

The simple answer to the question of what is reflexology is that it is a special type of massage.

The more complete answer to the question of what is reflexology, however, is a bit more complicated.

While no one is certain why foot reflexology results, the general consensus is that certain parts of the foot correspond to certain areas of the body.

As such, when applying pressure to those parts of the body, the corresponding areas of the body are stimulated and the person’s health is improved.

The History of Reflexology Foot Massage

The history of foot reflexology is longer and more complicated than many people realize. In fact, it was first introduced in the United States by William H. Fitzgerald in 1913.

Fitzgerald was an ear, nose and throat specialist that believed applying pressure to certain parts of the body created an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body. At this time, however, the concept was known simply as “zone therapy” rather than reflexology.

The concept of reflexology foot massage was further expanded by Eunice D. Ingham in the 1930s and 1940s.

Ingham, who was a physiotherapist and nurse, felt that the hands and feet were particularly important to reflexology. In addition, he mapped out the parts of the feet that correspond to certain parts of the body.

Foot reflexology is still commonly used throughout the United States and the United Kingdom. Those that practice reflexology foot massage still follow the techniques and maps created by Ingham, though there are some additional technique that are also followed by practitioners of reflexology.

Pairing Foot Reflexology with Modern Medical Practices

Although foot reflexology has helped many people overcome illnesses and maintains a higher level of health, it is important to note that it is not meant to replace modern medical practices.

Rather, reflexology foot massage should be used along with modern medical practices in order to enhance its effectiveness and boost the body’s natural defense systems so you can heal more quickly and effectively.

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