Five Reflexology FAQs
By Liz Martin

If you’re thinking about getting a reflexology session, you might have some questions about what to expect! Here I’ve answered the most common questions about reflexology.

What is reflexology?

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It is a form of bodywork where the entire body – organs, glands and body parts – are reflected in the feet and hands. By stimulating a combination of zones and points on the feet as they correspond to parts of the body, a reflexologist is sending a signal (or reflex) through the nervous system to that part of the body. Depending on the technique used, the signal or reflex can relax or rejuvenate that body part, encouraging it to optimal function.

Where does reflexology come from?

Like all bodywork, there is evidence of foot treatments in most ancient cultures. The idea that our organs, glands and body parts are reflected in our feet, and that stimulating those points can lead to greater health, comes from Eunice Ingham (1889-1972). Drawing on the previous work of Dr. William Fitzgerald (who developed the idea that the body is divided into “zones”) and Dr. Joseph Shelby Riley (who developed the idea that reflexes found on the feet and hands that follow the anatomy of the body), Ingham identified the parts of the foot that correspond with parts of the body, creating the guide that reflexologists use today.

What is a reflexology session like?

I usually focus a session just on the feet, but if I have time I will incorporate some points on the hands. I start with general observations of the feet – looking for misalignments, bunions, curling of toes (“hammer toes”), calluses, discoloration, swelling, etc. Then I start with general relaxation techniques, stimulate the five zones of the feet, and give a “hello” to all reflexology points. Then depending on what the client wants to get out of the session, I will stimulate a series of points on the feet. I start by stimulating each point three times, 10 seconds each; I will give more time to a point if it feels stuck. I will end with more relaxation techniques.

A full reflexology session takes 60 minutes, or an abbreviated 30-minute session can be added to a 60- or 90-minute massage.

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What conditions can be addressed with reflexology?

Almost anything you can think of! Here is a brief list:

Anemia
Diabetes
Edema
Emotional imbalance
Fatigue
Headache
Heartburn
Hypertension
Indigestion
Insomnia
Morning sickness
Sciatica
Stress
Varicose veins

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Each condition has its own set of points that need to be addressed during the reflexology session – here are two examples of what that means:

Pancreas, liver, adrenals, thyroid, stomach, pituitary gland, kidney and the solar plexusIf someone has diabetes, I would focus on stimulating these points:

If someone has a headache, I would focus on stimulating these points:

• • Head, neck, sinus, spine, 7^th cervical vertebrae, coccyx, solar plexus, liver, stomach, urinary tract, and colon

How can reflexology help with birth preparation?

Susanne Enzer’s Maternity Reflexology Manual has influenced and guided the Birth Preparation reflexology session that I offer. On its own or when combined with a 60- or 90- minute massage, reflexology encourages deep relaxation. Birth is more likely to start when the pregnant person is relaxed, soft and open.

A birth preparation session stimulates the following points:

1. Endocrine glands – get those hormones flowing!
   1. Includes all endocrine glands, with a focus to the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes, and also the hypothalamus and pituitary gland where oxytocin is created and secreted.
2. Spine, sacrum & pelvic bones – creates deep relaxation, softens the body, opens and mobilizes the sacrum, and lets the baby descend into the pelvis
3. Large & small intestine – get the bowels moving and stimulate an opening of the pelvis
4. Lymphatic drainage – get all the fluids flowing!
5. Solar plexus – calms the nerve center of the body and brings the energy down