Knowing Whats Best

Feeling stressed? Digestive problems? Headaches? Take a break, relax and lean back, whether with a partner of by yourself, a good foot massage can virtually get rid of all of your problems. What, how and why? I will address all of these questions and will introduce you quickly to the art of reflexology, guiding your first steps in this ancient tradition.

To start out here are real quick some basics:

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is an ancient art of applying pressure, stretching and moving hands and feet to get rid of pain and unwanted feelings. Done right it will help you to balance your body, help circulation and give you a feeling of general well being.

How does reflexology work?

Differing from massage, reflexology works by applying pressure to different nerve endings in the foot ‘which apply’ to different parts of the body.

What are some benefits of reflexology?

It can help you to:

Relax
Reduce stress
Relief pain and tension
Aid in the digestive process
Improve your sleep
Improve your mental and physical well-being

Are there any dangers?

Done in the right way, reflexology should never hurt but just relax certain parts of the body. While there is not very much information of reported problems or dangers, one should avoid and/or consult a doctor if one recently had a foot wound or fracture or circulation problems. It has also been listed that caution is advised for pregnant women, as vigorous foot stimulation may cause the uterus to contract.

So how can you use reflexology by yourself for your physical well-being?

Getting started

Step 1- Ankle Rotations

Start out by some simple ankle rotation. Rotate each foot 10 times clockwise and repeat the same in the counterclockwise direction. This will help relax the major muscles connecting your foot and leg.

Step 2- Focus : Help for Sinus and Respiratory Infections

Sit down and place your foot on the thigh of the other.

Essential oils recommended:*
eucalyptus
ravensara

Apply a few drops of the toes of each foot and start rubbing your toes vigorously using the left hand on the top and the right hand on the bottom surface of all five toes.

Now starting with your big toe, use your index finger and thumb to massage both sides of each toe going up and down in a ‘hopping’ matter.

Step 3- Focus: Digestion

Essential oils recommended:*
peppermint
fennel

Rub in 2-3 drops on the bottom of your foot between ball and heel.

Starting at the outside of your foot between ball and heel, stroke from the outside- in towards the arch of the foot. Continue these movements several times for each foot to feel the desired effect- don’t forget to inhale the oils for best results.

Step 4- Focus: Overall Circulation

Essential oils recommended:*
lemon
cypress

Apply one or both of these oils to the entire foot, top and bottom.

With one hand on the top surface and one hand on the bottom surface, vigorously rub the entire foot.

Step 5- Finish

The perfect finish is to lie down and elevate your feet for a few minutes; relaxing your whole body.

*Notice: The use of essential oils is just one of many ways to make use of reflexology, you can work with any oil or cream, or even without it.

Mix your own foot relaxing massage oil

You’ll need:
2 teaspoons (10 ml) castor, jojoba, soybean, or extra-virgin olive oil
3 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop German chamomile essential oil
1 drop geranium essential oil

Combine all the ingredients in a small bowl. Stir thoroughly.
Use approximately 1 teaspoon (5 ml per foot and massage in completely. Inhale the aroma on your hands before you massage, and continue to breathe deeply, as these particular oils are extremely calming. Put on socks after massage to absorb excess oil and soften feet

While these were certainly just a few tips on how to get started with your own reflexology, I hope that I was able to help you on your way to revitalize and energize giving you a short introduction to this ancient technique. As always, enjoy and let me know about any thoughts or problems and feel free to add where you think I might be lacking.

Felicia Syring for knowing what’s best

Tags: massage, reflexology