Reflexology is a complementary therapy, based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet which, like a map, correspond to all body parts. The physical act of applying specific pressures, using thumb, finger and hand techniques, results in stress reduction, causing a physiological change in the body.Complementary therapies are used alongside conventional therapy to help improve emotional, psychological and spiritual health in wellness seekers.
How does reflexology work?
Each session is completely customized to each person. A typical session runs from 30 to 60 minutes. Shoes and socks are removed and a foot bath is given. Pressure is then applied — with no oils or lotions — based on the theory that our feet are a mirror of our body and specific points on the feet correspond to specific parts of the body. By pressing on these points, the release of pain and tension can help the body to heal itself.
Is your health on the wrong foot?
Imbalance and stress put the body into dis-ease, leading to an inability to calm, to sleep, to heal. Reflexology can help the body manage stress and tension. Out-of-synch indicators include migraines, digestive issues, constipation, skin issues, colds, flus, aches and pains. It can also help those suffering from cancer treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Reflexology increases blood flow and clears neural pathways, which may help to stimulate antioxidant activity and slow the spread of disease.
Jump in with both feet
Curious about how reflexology can help? I was. My esthetician asked me if I would like to experience reflexology as part of my skin care treatment at Studio Pilar. My response was: Absolutely!
The session, while not uncomfortable or painful, did feel, well … tender. Teja Vovk, the reflexologist, gently messaged certain areas of my feet, referencing the sensitive areas as feeling like “crystals or sand grains,” indicating uric acid or calcium deposits that coordinate with the part of the body that is out of balance. She carefully applied gentle pressure to break up and then dissolve the deposits, which she explained may need more time to clear, requiring additional visits.
We talked through each tender feeling, and what it corresponded to within the body. Afterwards, she suggested that I drink lots of water to help flush out the toxins that were released, and we scheduled a second session.
Take a stand for your health
Is there really anything behind the idea that the bottom of our foot can review the state of our health? That by dis-solving stress, tension and the body’s dis-ease, putting the body back into balance, a way to better health can be found? The only way to really know is to check it out for yourself.
Teja Vovk acquired certification in foot and hand reflexology valid throughout the European Union. Book a session with her at Studio Pilar, located at 143 Church St. in Vienna, Virginia.
Rebekah Kelley is the founder of Virtue Skinfood, a wholistic luxury skin care line. Visit her on the web at virtueskinfood.com.
