Reflexology: Pressure Point Massage Therapy

Reflexology is the massage practice of applying pressure on certain points on the hands and feet. It is a massage therapy technique aimed at promoting relaxation and improving one’s over-all health. The science behind reflexology is still a subject of hot debate. Nevertheless, professionals and even individuals from Citrus Park cannot discount the benefits that reflexology brings to human wellness.

The idea behind reflexology basically works on the assumption that a person’s palm and foot are connected to his or her internal organs. Its roots are not specifically determined, but there have been historical evidences showing how reflexology has been present in early Chinese, Indian, and Egyptian practice. Modern reflexology, on the other hand, traces its roots on the separate studies made by William Fitzgerald and Eugene Ingham. These studies showed how the 7,000 neurons and nerve endings found in a human foot correlates to other human body parts. For instance, the toes are related to the head and neck, the balls of the feet are related to the lungs chest and heart, and in general, the left foot is related to the body’s right side, while the right foot is related to the left. Because of this correlation, Ingham made this analogy: if the human nervous system serves as the computer’s brain, then the human feet are the keyboard.  Pressing several points on the feet unblocks energy and enhances its flow on the different parts of the body.

Before the start of a reflexology session, the reflexologist normally inquires about the client’s health condition to be informed about past or current medical illnesses. This is done to make the session complement medical treatments. Just remember that like most of the massage therapy techniques, reflexology should not replace doctor’s prescriptions.

A typical reflexology session in Citrus Park consists of the client removing his or her shoes and then sitting on a reclined chair. Some massage therapists in Citrus Park make their clients lie on their back while they do reflexology. This step is followed by a brief educational discussion on the important pressure points of the foot.

Warm up for reflexology consists of rubbing each foot. By this simple exercise, the reflexologist can tell the areas that feel sensitive or taut. These are signs that the corresponding body part is suffering from energy blocks. Reflexologists focus on these areas for about 30 minutes to a full one hour.

To get the maximum benefits from reflexology, professionals recommend a session to be scheduled at least once a week. Some people ask their reflexologists to teach them the basics so that they can do some massage work on themselves while trying to rest from a day’s work. However, it is still recommended that you go to a professional and licensed reflexologist to make sure you are hitting the correct pressure points properly.

Massage Envy Citrus Park

12865 Citrus Plaza Drive MM# 19430, Tampa, FL 33625

(813) 341-1900

www.massageenvy.com/clinics/FL/Citrus-Park.aspx