FOOT REFLEXOLOGY | newfootmassage

A form of bodywork that focuses primarily on the feet

Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose, and throat doctor, introduced the concept of “zone therapy” in 1915. American physiotherapist Eunice Ingram further developed this zone theory in the 1930’s into what is now known as reflexology.

Reflexology, commonly called foot massage, is a popular alternative therapy. It promotes relaxation, stimulates our blood circulation, balances our hormone and maintains lymph flow. It also renews our cell systems, regulates our internal organs and rejuvenates our life force, bringing our body into balance. It encourages our own natural healing capability from within.

The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are “reflex” areas on the feet and hands – known as reflex zones – containing millions of nerve endings that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.

On our feet, there are more than 60 reflex points corresponding to our body parts and organ systems. They are orderly arranged resembling the shape of the body. If there is imbalance, blockage in our body system, you will feel discomfort on the reflex points when checked by the reflexologist.

With proper pressure and technique to stimulate the reflex points in sequence according to the interrelationship of the organ systems, the stimulation can be reflexed to the corresponding body parts, to restore their proper functions and to regain balance in our systems.

It is the balance of our life force that brings us not just physical wellness, but also the mental wellness.

Foot reflexology is very relaxing, especially for people who stand on their feet all day or just have tired, achy feet. It relaxes your feet, your body and your mind. It is recommended as a complementary therapy and as a preventive measure. It can work alongside conventional Western medical medicine to promote healing and to improve wellbeing and vitality. It is not to replace medical treatment.

Among the many health-promoting traditional therapies, foot massage is an easy, safe and effective health care method for your well beings.

Wong, Cathy, ND. “Reflexology.” About.com Alternative Medicine. N.p., 24 July 2013. Web. 10 Dec. 2013;
Wallersteiner, Rebecca, Health Journalist. “Health Benefits of Reflexology.” Netdoctor. N.p., 25 Sept. 2012. Web. 10 Dec. 2013.

Reflexology Benefits

Relaxes your tense, tired body
Improves sleeping
Relieves anxiety, reduces stress, and lowers blood pressure
Releases migraine headaches
Eases the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome
Benefits higher level of energy
Enhances immune system
Improves blood circulation, helps with diabetes and overall wellness
Regulates digestive and gland function
Restores metabolism, helps detoxify

Hot foot bath with foot massage

Hot Foot bath is a popular practice in Tradition Chinese Medicine. It is believe to be good for our health, especially in winter. During the cold season, our body is more prone to muscle aches, cold hands and feet, as well as stomach discomfort. Hot foot baths can promote blood circulation, clear meridians, relieve cold hands and feet. It stimulates acupuncture points and meridians infiltration. Our metabolism get improved as does our sleeping quality.

We should relax our feet with a hot foot bath before the foot massage to prepare our feet to take the full advantage of the foot reflexology massage. It is a relaxing and beneficial add on.

Please note…

While having the foot bath, it is important to maintain a comfortable water temperature. It is a myth to think the hotter the water the better. Should the water be too cold, it may not be effective, but too hot the water, the body may over-react and disturb the internal balance.

It is a good habit to drink warm water within 30 min after the massage. The intake of water facilitates the blood circulation and the detoxification process.

Hot Foot bath and foot reflexology is not advised if you have just had a big full meal. The stomach needs time to work on the food. Wait about 30 min for the food to be digested before you have a massage. When under the influence of alcohol, it is not a good time to have massage either.