Reflexology is a type of bodywork which involves applying pressure on hands and feet which can improve the overall health of the body by relieving stress and reducing body pain. It is considered a type of massage but does not have any similarities with other types of massages.
Reflexology works on the theory that certain points on our feet and hands are linked to internal organs of our body through the energy channels (In Chinese medicine, it is known as Qi or Chi). By applying pressure on these areas, the reflexes will remove any blockages in the body, which is disturbing the energy flow. It helps in building a better immune system, protects the body from illnesses, and lifts up the mood.
Comparing reflexology with massage
Reflexology can be a short chapter in the syllabus of those who are studying massage and physiotherapy. But it is not a base part of massage therapy and works in a completely different manner. While is also involves applying pressure on the body parts, the reflexologists use a body map to apply pressure at certain points to ease health problems.
While reflexology techniques are primarily used on fingers and thumbs, other massage therapies apply to large muscles of the body. Reflexology only applies to small muscle movements, unlike the utilization of hands, arms, and elbows used in massage therapies.
Reflexology is only applied to hands, feet, and/or ears while massage therapies are meant for the entire body. Massage helps in easing the muscles and removing the tension from the body. The purpose of reflexology is to improve inner organ functions.
Reflexology promotes the response from the tissues which are stimulated through the nervous system and meridians. The massage therapy treats the entire body, and the whole system is partially benefitted from it.
Reflexology helps the body to have a better circulation of blood and energy through the nervous system. It helps in balancing internal and external body systems, while massage offers a more localized muscle relaxation.
Which one should you choose?
Many massage therapists do have the basic knowledge of the reflex zones, and they implement it in their practices, but it is not necessarily an option available with them. The techniques may include hand and feet massage, but they are not related to reflex zones.
The reflexologists specialize in the art of reflexology and have the knowledge of different subjects under it. A session of reflexology lasts for 30 to 60 minutes, and only the hands and feet are operated. They use a special body map which helps them to put pressure on the right points on the body, which will help in easing the body parts connected to them.
The need for a massage or reflexology depends on what your major concern is. While a good massage can be done any day to refresh the body, reflexology can be more helpful in treating body pain and internal stress and anxiety. Both the options are perfectly valid for releasing your tension and relax for the time being.