Chinese Reflexology
Improving Your Health with Chinese Reflexology
Introduced in the US at the start of the 1900s, Chinese reflexology has grown to become a widely practiced form of treatment amongst massage therapists in North America. It is also recognized and used in many regions of Europe as well as Asia—the continent from which it originates.
What is Chinese Reflexology?
Chinese reflexology is an ancient alternative medicine practice which is used in achieving healing through the stimulation of recognized pressure points along the body. The science of Chinese reflexology is based on the view that the body constantly channels essential life energy through regions that are known as zones. These zones are located in different parts of the body with a focal point beginning at the head and ending at the fingers and toes.
It is believed that when this energy pathway is blocked people become more susceptible and inevitably, succumb to diseases. People are therefore able to find relief from their illnesses once the energy flow has successfully been restored. The restoration of this energy pathway is achieved though the simulation of different reflex points characteristically located around the hands and feet of the individual.
Chinese Reflexology Session
A typical Chinese reflexology session generally lasts between 45 to 100 minutes. It can either be done at a designated reflexology center or at a person’s home. During this period the reflexology therapist manipulates each zone point using the light massaging actions of the finger, thumbs and palms. These massages are sometimes accompanied with the use of foot cream. In order to facilitate the results of a massage, the feet of a patient are commonly soaked into a footbath of warm herbal solution before proceeding. Patients are given some green tea during the entire period of the massage. The actions of green tea as well as the use of massaging cream are all designed to increase the circulation of blood during the session.
It is said that a therapist is able to physically locate the blocks within the energy pathway. These are often described as feeling like tiny crystalline deposits. When a therapist encounters any of these, a deeper pressure is applied until the crystals have been broken down. This can last for as long as a minute. Depending on a person’s condition, a single reflexology session might be sufficient for the desired results to be achieved. Most reflexology therapists however encourage that people maintain regular sessions in order to ensure the long term health and balance of body and energy levels.
Benefits of Chinese Reflexology
There are several advantages associated with the use of Chinese reflexology. Proponents of this therapy method report that it is very effective when used as a treatment for migraines, constipation and sinus trouble. The actions of a therapist during a reflexology session are widely viewed as being effective in the stimulation of blood circulation through the major lymph systems.
Many of the people who attend a Chinese Reflexology leave feeling relaxed and free of pain. There is also a general positive air of well being which the aftermath of a session is said to bring.
The theory of reflexology does not only exist within the walls of massage room. It can also be applied as a way of life. For example, it is not uncommon to find supporters of reflexology wearing special shoe liners. These have been designed to stimulate the various pressure points on the sole of the feet as they walk about.
Like most alternate medicine practice, there are many skeptics who question the efficiency and theory of the reflexology treatment. Despite these views million of people actively engage in reflexology and very few have reported being dissatisfied with its method or results.