Alternative Medicine: Reduce Stress with Reflexology

Reflexology is a science, which centers on the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands, which relate to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body. Stimulating these reflexes correctly can alleviate many health problems in a natural way, a type of preventative maintenance. Reflexology is being considered seriously in the health field and should not be confused with massage.

They say your life is in your hands, Reflexology proves it. The focuses of Reflexology are the hands and feet. It is done by exerting pressure to points in the hands and feet. It is believed that there are certain points in the hands and feet that corresponds to different vital parts of the body, hands and feet as the mirror of the whole body. This technique is said to shatter stress patterns to the body. Only the hands are used and no gadgets are required. It is a safe method to reduce stress and there are no side effects.

The point of emphasis of Reflexology is the nervous system. Every pressure exerted to various points of the hands and feet creates impulses to the peripheral nervous system. These impulses reach the central nervous system and control some processes and metabolisms to regulate their work to certain parts and organs in the body. Adjustment of body tone depends on the amount of pressure applied at the hands and feet. Reflexologists also use other parts of the body such as ears although they prefer the hands and feet. It is thought that the extremities have more influence than other body parts because of locomotion.

Reflexology is mainly done to reduce stress in the body. It can maintain the homeostasis of the body by setting the tone of the body. Although there are some benefits seen on Reflexology, it is still not proven to treat any type of illness or disease. Further study and investigation is needed to be sure of its real benefits and effects to the body. It is not used as a standard medical care although it has received some compliments.

The frequency of performing reflexology is indefinite but should be consistent and with a professional health care practitioner's guidance. Reflexology would not be successful without self-help and family-help.

Some professional health care providers have studied reflexology in order to use it as addition to help their patients. Reflexology is now used in some medical institutions.