Reflexology works by interrupting stress patterns in the body, through stimulating pressure sensors on the hands and feet that induce a specific relaxation response in the corresponding body part.
This in turn is said to reduce stress in the nervous system, promoting beneficial effects on the whole body.
The goal is to lower your stress sufficiently to allow your body to begin to repair itself.
"Sophisticated measuring devices used by researchers in Singapore have shown in one study that reflexology impacts heart health," he adds.
"Another study also showed that reflexology work produces the same effects in the brain as those produced by an individual who is meditating.
Both studies used the real-time measurement of reflexology work with an EKG and an EEG respectively."
Hands and feet
While obviously not exactly the same process, hand and foot reflexology are linked, with the hand reflexology map mirroring the foot reflexology map.
Some consider foot reflexology to be the more effective practice, because the shoe-wearing foot is more protected and therefore more sensitive to reflexology work.
However, hands have the benefit of being more easily accessible and therefore available for more frequent reflexology work.
"Research has shown a foot-to-hand link so that hand reflexology can be very effective for the same issues addressed by foot reflexology," explains Kevin.
"Hand reflexology may be easier to learn, simply because most of us are more accustomed to handling and working with our hands rather than our feet.
One of the great things about hand reflexology is that it is simple, effective and safe."
Reflexology can help to feel make you more relaxed all over
Reflexology can help to feel make you more relaxed all over
Easy
Getting started in hand reflexology is easy, he says.
Pressure, stretch and movement are your tools to use for a happier hand and a healthier you. Pull gently on a finger. Press the webbing of your hand between thumb and fingertip.
Grasp the body of the hand and move it from side to side. Any such activities provide a bit of respite. "One caveat is tailoring one's enthusiasm for reflexology work to match the hand's capabilities," Kevin warns.
In other words, don't get carried away by overly working your hands when applying reflexology technique. It is important that the technique be kept within the recipient's comfort zone.
"Overuse can result from the application of technique that is too much, too long or too hard," Kevin adds.
"If part of the hand feels unduly sensitive to the touch following reflexology work, rest it for a few days before resuming work.
Lessen the time and frequency of application but if the hand is still sensitive, stop."
As well as simply using your hand for manipulation, traditional massage tools such as foot rollers can also be used.
However, Kevin's favourite is a golf ball. "Grasp the hands together, holding a golf ball between the hands, and then roll the ball throughout the palm below the thumb," he explains.
"This simple technique helps one apply pressure to reflex areas reflecting parts of the body significant to one's well-being.
These include the energy producing adrenal glands and pancreas, the stress relieving solar plexus as well as the major organs, the kidneys and stomach.
[img width=429 height=500]http://i31.photobucket.com/albums/c373/awanix/handchart.jpg[/img]
Reflexology
Originally Posted by Bahalina-boy
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