Our bodies are incredibly complex entities, and part of that complexity is expressed in the many diverse ways seemingly distinct segments of the body are interconnected. For instance, through research, we now know that gut bacteria lining the intestines play an important role in checkmating the progress of many diseases affecting organs as far up as the brain. In this same manner, reflexology – the practice of stimulating specific areas on your feet (or hands) through massaging – elicits a plethora of beneficial and therapeutic effects in many other bodily regions far off from the hands and feet.
Modern-day reflexology was introduced in the United States around 1915 by Dr. William Fitzgerald. Since then, the practice which draws its roots from similar procedures native to ancient Chinese and Egyptian medicine has undergone several clinical and scientific studies that continue to back its efficacy.
Reflexology and neural pathways for stress, anxiety, and headaches
Each foot contains no fewer than 7000 nerve endings, all of which are connected to higher centers of the central nervous system. By stimulating these nerve endings, reflexology helps to concurrently stimulate brain centers related to stress, anxiety, and headaches.
The result of this passive stimulation is active relief of the symptoms related to these health conditions. And the best part is the results are long-lasting, with a persistent cessation of symptoms even after reflexology procedures have been halted. In one study published in the Journal of Alternative Therapies in health and Medicine, of 220 patients who received reflexology therapy for headaches and migraines, 81% reported noticeable improvements with another 19% of the study population halting their migraine medication use.
Promoting optimal energy levels
Reflexology has also been shown to drastically improve blood circulation around the body. The direct consequence of this is that all parts of your body receive improved circulation of nutrients, oxygen, and other essential metabolites needed for optimal functioning. When every part of your body, most notably the brain, lungs, and muscle tissues receive their required ration of nutrients, you’re invariably primed to feel more energetic and refreshed to conquer daily activities.
Besides a reduction of sluggishness, this improved blood circulation also fosters faster healing and redevelopment of damaged tissues. A fact that underscores why reflexology is often recommended for trauma or accident victims.
Reflexology for supporting immunity
The mechanics of immune function in the body is intimately linked to stress. When stress levels are high, immune response is conversely depressed; when the body is in a relaxed state, it’s better suited to ward off pathogens and other disease-causing elements. From this, it's easy to see that through its anti-stress actions, reflexology works to improve immunity, setting our bodies up to better handle the many pathogenic exposures we experience daily.
Reflexology also has a marked effect on the body’s lymphatics, improving lymphatic circulation
much like it does blood circulation. In addition to eliminating waste (and toxic) materials, the body’s lymphatic channels house the greater collection of its disease-fighting cells or lymphocytes. With improved lymphatic circulation, these cells are made more available to curb infections and diseases.
The bottom line
While the body of research supporting its efficacy continues to grow, there’s still a need for more investigations and clinical trials to unravel its precise mechanisms of action and unexplored therapeutic applications. Until then, know that reflexology may help improve your health in several crucial areas. But if you’re not sure if reflexology is right for you, be sure to consult your doctor.