Healing Benefits Of Foot Reflexology
Our feet are among the most hardworking parts of our body, but they don’t receive enough care and attention. When foot problems arise, they usually involve heel, ankle, hips, knee, and back pain. Did you know that applying pressure to certain reflex points on the feet can improve your psychological and physical health? Check out the healing benefits of foot massage and reflexology.
1. Lowers Blood Pressure
Massaging your feet regularly can help control hypertension or high blood pressure. It was also found that foot reflexology may help in reducing triglyceride and systolic blood pressure.
2. Improves Blood Circulation
The application of pressure, strokes and gentle techniques enhance blood circulation to vital organs. This will nourish body tissues and organs as blood delivers nutrients and oxygen. Foot reflexology also helps in repairing damaged tissues.
3. Promotes Relaxation
Pic: iStockphoto
Foot massage is the best way to relax your mind and body. Applying certain points on feet can also help in alleviating symptoms of depression. For example, the ball of the foot under the big toe and the spot in the center of the big toe are associated with mental health and emotional stability.
4. Relieves Pains And Tension
Reflexology can help in treating headaches, neck pain, migraine, upper and lower back pains. Massaging your feet will also treat and prevent many foot problems, such as plantar fasciitis and Achilles tendonitis.
5. Improves Cognitive Function
Oxygen is required to keep organs and cells healthy. Foot reflexology helps in delivering oxygen to the brain. Manipulating the reflex points also promotes energy flow to the brain. Keep in mind that reflexology is a complementary therapy. Always consult a doctor for any problems with mental or physical health.
6. Promotes Better Sleep
Pic: iStockphoto
Having a foot massage before going to bed can help you achieve a goodnight’s sleep. Sleep deprivation slows down your brain processes and can lead to serious health problems, such as stroke, hypertension, heart attack, and diabetes.
7. Eases Symptoms Of Menopause And PMS
Many women experience irritability, bloating, mood swings, headaches, lethargy, and insomnia during premenstrual syndrome. These symptoms can be treated by massaging your feet. Also, reflexology can ease symptoms of menopause, such as depression and hot flashes.
Pic: iStockphoto
8. Treats Restless Leg Syndrome
One of the effective ways in treating restless leg syndrome is by having a massage. This condition makes sleeping difficult due to the pulling, throbbing sensations, and the urge to move your feet. There are many ways foot reflexology can improve one’s overall health. It is most effective when administered by a train professional.
For more information on reflexology . . .
Moira Chisholm
I'm the Health Editor on My Weekly and am always interested to hear what's new in this fascinating field. I also deal with the gardening, shopping pages, general features, our website content and the Ask Helen problem page. I have a special interest in Christmas content because I'm on the team for Your Best Ever Christmas Magazine, too!
