If you were to take a poll of the most neglected part of the body, your feet would likely rank very high on the list. Which raises the question; when last have you taken the time to pamper your feet, or even offer a gentle massage? Chances are, not recently.

What is Foot Reflexology?

The foot is believed to have specific reflex points, which under stimulation can help the body heal itself. Reflexology and foot massages are now commonly used in alternative medicine, as it is considered very safe and likely to benefit you. Wondering what are some of the benefits you can experience from reflexology and foot massages? Let’s check them out now

Blood Pressure

There is evidence to indicate that when performed regularly, reflexology can help to lower your systolic blood pressure. It most likely does this thanks to its ability to reduce stress. Cortisol is a known contributor to high blood pressure, so anything you could do to help keep it reduced would benefit your heart health.

Nerve Sensitivity

Ottawa Reflexology and foot massages seem to be of particular benefit in persons who may have experienced diminished nerve function secondary to another condition. For example, people diagnosed with hypertension or diabetes may experience complications due to neuropathy, which results in loss of sensation in areas of the body, especially the legs and arms. This is more frequent in the legs, and can be improved with massage and by directly stimulating the reflex points at the bottom of your feet. Reflexology may also help to improve blood flow to these areas, which would explain the return to function of some of these nerves.

Energy Levels

As reflexology is believed to help enhance the function of several other organs, many people report improvements to their energy levels and metabolism to a lesser extent. By improving the function of many accessory organs, the processing of food is likely to become more efficient and you experience a nice boost in energy as a result.

Blood Circulation

It seems that one of the most well-known benefits of foot reflexology is its ability to improve blood flow throughout the whole body. Improved circulation translates to more efficient oxygenation of cells, and more rapid recovery following a workout or an injury.

Sleep

Thanks to its ability to improve the functioning of the nervous system, it also appears that neurotransmitters are better able to promote sleep and relaxation as night-time approaches. Reflexology has also often been sought out to help manage insomnia, helping to restore your normal circadian rhythm.

Liver Function

Virtually anything that you put in your mouth needs to pass through the liver for processing prior to entering systematic blood circulation. For this reason, the liver endures quite the beating, and needs supports to function optimally at all times. Any decrease in function of the liver could lead to dangerous accumulation of waste matter, which would’ve otherwise been removed by the organ. Reflexology can help to reset elevated liver enzymes values, and ensure that substances are metabolized in an efficient manner, keeping your body safe.

Migraines & Headaches

Many people all over the world suffer from headaches and intractable migraines, needing to resort to medication frequently. However, this is not ideal as these medications could carry significant risk of side effects. Foot reflexology can help to reduce the pain associated with migraines, by decreasing the impact of the hormone cortisol on our blood vessels, reducing muscular tension and helping to calm us. Often times headaches and migraines occur due to high stress burdens or lack of sleep, both of which reflexology sessions can help you with.

The Healing Process

Reflexology is able to improve blood circulation as was previously mentioned, and when combined with an efficient nervous system that quickly relays to the immune system the need for specialized immune mediators, healing can quickly ensue. Of course, the more efficient its process is the faster you will recover and be able to get back to your daily routine as well.

Helps Reduce Swollen Feet

Feet can become swollen for a number of reasons including high blood pressure, heart failure, kidney disease or even pregnancy. Regardless of the cause, you need to find a way to remove excess fluid that is pooling in your feet and ease the discomfort. Foot massages are advised during pregnancy for this exact reason, as anything that promotes circulation will generally help to reduce swelling of the feet.

Depression

While depression is frequently caused by an imbalance of neurotransmitter levels, lack of sleep or high anxiety and stress levels can induce a state similar to depression. A foot massage and reflexology performed twice weekly can help to minimize these symptoms, especially when under high stress. Reflexology is even preferred over medication when treating postmenopausal women who may not necessarily need potent drugs, but just a natural way to optimize hormonal and brain chemistry.