In reflexology, pressure is applied to certain points or parts of the body and/or foot. The theory of reflexology for feet is that these regions of the body have peripheral nerve endings that sense pressure and adjust. There are certain areas of the feet that correspond with certain areas of the body, that may seem unconnected. There are also certain areas that are thought to correspond to certain organs or tissues in the body.

Foot Massage Benefits

The feet have peripheral nerves and cutaneous nerves that pick up sensations such as vibrations, pressure and temperature. There are also nerves that correlate with the central nervous system, which may get activated with foot massage as well. These tend to produce a relaxing sensation or calming effect overall.

There are also areas of the feet that are related to other areas of the body. For example, the lateral side of the superior part of the foot just below the pinky toe is related to the shoulder. When one applies acupressure or reflexology to this region of the foot, it may actually aid the other region of the body – in this example, the shoulder.

There are also certain areas of the foot that are thought to correspond to certain organs or tissues in the body. An example of this is directly underneath the arch in the center is the kidney. The sensations that someone may experience in certain regions of the feet can give insight into what may be out of balance in the body. Also, a trained reflexologist may notice certain sensations that may tune them into the need to focus on these regions. The thought is that by stimulating or massaging these points, it will assist the body to heal or improve the healing process.

Reflexology and foot massage is one of our instructor Marie’s specialities. Read her full bio HERE