Learn Reflexology
If You Want To Learn Reflexology
You can learn reflexology with one of two goals in mind. You can learn the massage therapy method for your own use, or to use on members of your family, or you can learn reflexology with the goal of becoming a certified reflexologist and setting up your own practice, or working in a wellness clinic or in a chiropractor's office.
Reflexology is an ancient practice involving massaging of the hands and feet with the goal of improving overall wellness, as well as treating certain ailments. The underlying theory of reflexology is that the hands and feet may be thought of as being divided into zones, with each zone, when properly massaged, influencing the functioning of a specific part of the body. Like may alternative medicine practices, benefits gained from practicing reflexology tend to accumulate over the long term.
Not A Substitute For Your Physician - Although the practice of reflexology is believed by many to have curative powers, those who actively practice it are quick to note that it as an adjunct to conventional western medical practice and not a substitute.
We all know how much better we usually feel after a good massage, including a foot massage. Even soaking our feet in warm water not only relieves tired feet, but often makes us feel better all over. Very often the condition of our feet is a barometer for how we feel. Reflexology, the massaging of the feet, is known to reduce stress and tension we may feel, and this reduction of stress and tension is what reflexology is really all about. When we feel better, we usually are better.
As an example, a reflexology chart of the foot would show that the left foot acts as a mirror of the left side of the body. The spine is mirrored in the inside of the foot, and the upper back and abdomen is mirrored in the ball of the foot. The same general concept applies to the hands. This is somewhat similar to the concept of ki or chi in the martial arts and yoga, where meridians or lines through which energy flows are thought to exist in the body.
Prove It To Yourself - In reflexology, as in many alternative medical practices, the proof of the pudding is in the eating. Fortunately, there are few outlandish claims, and one can learn reflexology and practice it on himself and herself to judge the benefits, before taking classes or studying to become a reflexologist which will take time and money. One of the truly nice things about reflexology is the knowledge that massage is by and large very good for a person, and is not a practice known for having any undesirable side effects. You can learn reflexology at your own pace and judge for yourself whether you want to take things to a new level or not. There are schools in roughly 25 states where you can enroll to study reflexology with the idea of working towards a certificate or Associates degree. There are also on line studies available.
You can learn reflexology basics, practice on yourself, and judge the results. Reflexology appears to be most effective when practiced consistently, and preferably daily. There are various exercises one can do for a couple of minutes several times a day, coupled with a good 5 minute massage at the end of the day. This will accomplish more than an occasional 30 minute massage. Try it and see if it makes you feel more relaxed and less tense, if any aches and pains you may be experiencing are lessened, and over the longer term, if there appears to be improvements in cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and the like. Again, reflexology does not substitute for what your physician may prescribe, but rather acts as a helpful adjunct, and if you're already in good health, might make you feel even better.