Saturday, March 1, 2008

Foot Reflexology


Foot reflexology is considered by some to be just a foot massage.

What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all of the organs and systems in the body.

Many proponents claim that foot reflexology can cleanse the body of toxins, increase circulation, assist in weight loss, and improve the health of organs throughout the body. Others have reported success in treating earaches, anemia, bedwetting, bronchitis, convulsions in an infant, hemorrhoids, hiccups, deafness, hair loss, emphysema, prostate trouble, heart disease, overactive thyroid gland, kidney stones, liver trouble, rectal prolapse, undescended testicles, intestinal paralysis, cataracts, and hydrocephalus (a condition in which an excess of fluid surrounding the brain can cause pressure that damages the brain).However, there is no scientific support for these assertions.

I started going for these foot massages just at the start of this year. I sort of stumbled (no pun intended) into it. Just the other day, when the reflexologist massaged a particular part of my left foot, the pain was excruciating. I told him about it, and he said it indicated a problem with my digestive system. He said that I should try to avoid shellfish, seafood and meat, but to eat more fish instead. He indicated that I had eaten too much "good stuff" over the CNY period.

When I got home, I told hubby what the reflexologist said, and he said: You mean to say you believe him??

Well, what he said corresponds to what my last blood test indicated - high cholesterol, - and to avoid shellfish in particular. So, why shouldnt I believe him, right?

But a week later, I went for another foot massage. This time a different guy massaged my feet. Again there was an excruciating pain in a particular part of my left foot. When I mentioned it, he said that it indicated a heart (??!?) problem. And when he got to my right foot, he told me that I had a problem with my right knee, and I had to make sure I took care of it.

Now, I really dont know whether to believe them or not? My cardiologist told me my heart was fine after a ecg test coupled with the treadmill test just 9 months ago. Also, I have never had problems with my knees.

So that got me thinking. Does he know something that I dont? Maybe, hubby was right afterall: I cant believe what they tell me. But one thing I know for sure: I sleep very well after every visit!!

4 comments:

bp said...

I've not tried it before, but think as your husband said, take what the reflexologists say with a pinch of salt.

Ahhh, but the better sleep that comes after your foot massages, that must be really nice! Hope you aren't waking up in the wee hours as much now, and getting the rest you need!=)

pretzel said...

Coincidentally, i just had my 1st ever foot reflexology yest! :)
It did relieve my lower back ache for a while.
Think i'll start the foot reflexology routine in lieu of the expensive spa sessions :P

Yan said...

SAHM,

I just have mine this afternoon :)

Mine is more for improving of blood circulation of my legs. The massaging reduced my feet cramps!

Chris likes to follow me to the centre, and he brings his homework and books! That sounds a bonus, right? :)

NomadicMom said...

I like foot reflex!!! I must at least have one session a week. I'm sure the REAL experts can really tell you what's wrong with your body...but many are just trained to massage and don't really know which spot corresponds to where... But the key thing is that it is enjoyable, one can sleep well, and can go toilet easily!!!!