Reflexology is a non-invasive touch therapy involving the application of specific types of pressure and manipulation to points and areas located on all parts of the feet. These are called reflexes and relate to the structures, internal organs and tissues of the body in such a way that the body can be mapped directly onto the feet. Similar principles apply to the hands. It's an ancient therapy with roots in Chinese and Egyptian cultures but was revived and developed in the West in the late 19th century.
While carrying out a treatment, blood and lymph circulation is stimulated as well as nerve endings and this has a very positive effect on the rest of the body. Also, waste deposits are broken down, so helping everything to work more efficiently. Obtaining a state of relaxation is fundamental to the treatment.
When relaxed, your body is in the best possible state for innate healing powers and rebalancing mechanisms to operate. The environment in which treatments take place is geared towards total relaxation with sessions usually given in a reclining reflexology chair. Ideally you should almost drift off to sleep while still being aware of the sensations in your feet and releasing energy blockages throughout the body.