Reflexology
Reflexology is considered to be alternative treatment to the more mainstream methods of doctors and medication, aimed at the healing of various ailments, both minor and severe. It involves applying pressure to very specific parts of the hands and feet without using any sort of oil or lubricant. Where this pressure is applied is based on a system of reflex areas and zones. The basic idea is that, by applying pressure to the place represented by the zone on the foot, that organ or region of the body will be positively changed somehow. The history of reflexology goes back thousands of years to the times of ancient Egyptians, as well as to the Chinese and Japanese empires.
The most common area of pressure application is on the sole of the foot. The left hand and foot do not mirror their respective partners and vice versa. So, the area representing the stomach on the left foot is different in size and position to the stomach area on the right foot. This means that reflexologists need to have ample experience and legitimate certification to ensure that you are getting the best treatment available. There are pressure points in your hands and feet for almost every part of your body, including your kidneys, heart, brain, liver, limbs, colon, adrenal gland, pituitary gland, lungs, eyes, spine, small intestine, ears, and so on.
This is believed to work due to the pressure applied to the foot (for example) sending a signal to the brain, which processes the message. The brain then responds by sending a ‘healing’ message to the part of the body represented by the pressure point on the foot. This healing message would involve changes in oxygen levels and fuel reaching that particular area. This process preserves energy, relaxing the patient and easing stress and anxiety.
One of the main benefits of reflexology is its ability to relieve physical and mental stress, which are commonly associated with the wedding planning process. This is true of brides- and grooms-to-be alike, as well as of the wedding party and the parents of the couple. Although a joyous time of celebration, planning a wedding requires a lot of time, money and coordination, which often results in fatigue and anxiety.
Reflexology has also proved effective in the alleviation of depression. For those that suffer from depression for whatever reason and who are looking forward to their imminent wedding, reflexology should definitely be a serious consideration to ensure that you are feeling positive and relaxed on your special day. Reflexology works particularly well when used in conjunction with standard medical treatment and medication. For serious illnesses or ailments, you are advised to visit a medical doctor or specialist as well.
Those looking forward to a wedding should start having regular reflexology sessions well in advance (at least four weeks). For the best results, this treatment should be incorporated into your regular schedule of health and wellbeing.
The benefits that can be expected include:
- a general reduction in aches and pains
- relaxation
- improved blood pressure
- lower cholesterol levels
- healthier EEG and ECG results
- soothed and revitalised feet (very important for the wedding day, most of which is spent dancing or walking amongst guests)
- easing of symptoms associated with other diseases or treatments (such as the nausea associated with chemotherapy)
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