What Are Tools Used For Reflexology

Reflexology is fast becoming one of the alternative therapies that people have come to rely upon in order to better their health. It involves the application of pressure to the feet and hands at specific points that are mapped on a reflexology chart.  Applying pressure to these points stimulates the flow of the life energy, or ‘Qi’, throughout the body, thereby alleviating ailments and restoring balance and health to the body.

Reflexology is based on the principle that our body parts and functions correspond to specific areas on our hands and feet. Thus, by pressing the pressure points on our hands and feet, it is believed that the energy flow to the corresponding body parts can be manipulated. This technique works because when the nerve endings in your hands and feet are stimulated, the corresponding body parts get stimulated too. The right side of your body is mapped onto your right hand or foot and the left side onto your left hand or foot.

Sessions For Reflexology

The treatment begins with a session with the reflexologist to discuss your complete health history involving medical conditions, lifestyle habits, emotions and so on. By doing so, the most effective form of treatment, specific to your requirements can be given.

The session usually lasts anywhere between 30 minutes to an hour. A reflexologist typically uses only his hands to help stimulate your ‘Qi’. Sometimes, the reflexologist uses a foot and hand chart, which illustrates a full mapping of all the reflex points. These points are color coded to match the areas with their associated body parts. Along with a chart, practitioners also tend to use special reflexology rollers with raised bumps to provide the pressure point stimulation. You should inform your reflexologist of the ideal amount of pressure for you, or of any pain or discomfort.

If you would like to practice reflexology at home, you should purchase a reflexology mat with a ribbed pattern. Different portions of the mat correspond to a specific body part and by walking on the mat; various pressure points on the feet are stimulated. Similarly, for your hands, you could also buy reflexology gloves, which has a chart on it showing the different pressure points and their relative body parts.

It is important to realize that reflexology should not be used in isolation, and a healthy diet must be consumed along with regular exercise. Moreover, if any medical condition persists, you should visit a doctor.