Content
Foot reflexology is the most widely used type of reflexology and consists of applying pressure to points on the foot to balance the body's energy and prevent the onset of diseases and health problems. Reflexology is a type of complementary therapy, performed by a reflex therapist, who studies the reflex points of the body and nerve endings present in the feet, hands, nose, head and ears.
Usually, the reflexotherapist presses several regions of the foot with his thumb, looking for energy imbalances that can be manifested by sensitivity in the spot or feeling of sand under the skin. After finding the points of imbalance, the therapist gives a small massage that stimulates the natural healing processes of the affected area.
What is it for
Foot reflexology is a technique in which the professional presses, in a controlled manner, points on the foot that contain nerve endings and that correspond to various organs of the body. Thus, by stimulating these terminations, the self-healing process is favored, in addition to leading to an increase in the production of nitric oxide, which is an important compound for the organism, since it has vasodilating and analgesic properties.
This technique provides well-being and relaxation, since it leads to the release of toxins from the body, being used to prevent and treat diseases and other health conditions such as insomnia, stress, blood circulation problems, hormonal problems, constipation, labyrinthitis, kidney stones, asthma, hypertension, migraine, back pain, and sinusitis, for example.
How to perform the technique
An example of the step-by-step that can be applied by reflex therapist in foot reflexology is as follows:
- Hold the thumb with the fingers of one hand and the thumb of the other hand, rise from the base to the tip of the thumb. Repeat the movement, in parallel lines, for 1 minute;
- Hold the thumb with the fingers of one hand and with the thumb of the other hand, draw a cross to find the center of the thumb. Place your thumb, press and describe circles for 15 seconds;
- Bend the foot back with one hand and with the thumb of the other hand, make the lateral movement, as shown in the image. Repeat the movement 8 times;
- Bend your foot back and with the thumb of your other hand, go up to the base of the toes, as shown in the image. Make the movement for all fingers and repeat 5 times;
- Place 3 fingers below the protrusion of the sole and press this point lightly, with both thumbs, making small circles, for 20 seconds;
- Move your thumb along the side of the foot as shown in the image, repeating the movement 3 times.
In addition to reflexotherapy, to control anxiety it is important to do activities you enjoy, practice physical exercise such as walking and avoid negative thoughts.
Created by: Tua Saúde Editorial Team
Bibliography>
- HEALTH MAGAZINE IN FOCUS. Foot reflexion: literature review. 2018. Available at:. Accessed on 27 Jul 2020