SAMCHEOK, KOREA 2011 – Earlier this year a study from Korea revealed that ‘self-foot reflexology’ was effective in reducing perceived stress and fatigue:


TITLE:
‘Effects of Self-Foot Reflexology on Stress, Fatigue, Skin Temperature and Immune Response in Female Undergraduate Students’
 

ABSTRACT:
 
PURPOSE - The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effects of self-foot reflexology on stress (perceived stress, urine cortisol level, and serum cortisol level), fatigue, skin temperature and immune response in female undergraduate students.
 
METHODS – The research design was a nonequivalent control group pretest-post test design. Participants were 60 university students: 30 in the experiment group and 30 in the control group. The period of this study was from April to June 2010. The program was performed for 1 hr a session, three times a week for 6 weeks. The data were analyzed using the SPSS/WIN 17.0 program.
 
RESULTS – The results showed that self-foot reflexology was effective in reducing perceived stress and fatigue, and raised skin temperature in female undergraduate students. But cortisol levels and immune response were not statistically significant different.

CONCLUSION – The results of this study indicate that self-foot reflexology is an effective nursing intervention in reducing perceived stress and fatigue and, in improving skin temperature. Therefore, it is recommended that this be used in clinical practice as an effective nursing intervention for in female undergraduate students.

   
Keywords: Reflexology, Stress, Fatigue, Skin temperature, Immune response.

The Feel Better Reflexology Center is located in the Northern Liberties section of Philadelphia and the Feel Better Reflexology Center is city licensed. This center provides outstanding reflexology services! At the center offers you can find an excellent escape from the stresses of the world as you are provided (with reflexology, massage,) with relaxation & tension relief!

The feel good center says about their services:

“Foot reflexology: Every day gaining more popularity here in Philly! Works wonders! Helps every situation! Improves circulation to all systems. Thus, after a session, you will feel better.”

MORE REFLEXOLOGY RESOURCES:

Reflexology in the US
Reflexology in Singapore
Reflexology in South-Africa
Hand reflexology: the calming touch!

Feel Better Reflexology Center

health at your fingertips'.
health at your fingertips.

Barbara & Kevin Kunz present a milestone in the history of reflexology: Reflexology, health at your fingertips.

Health at your fingertips

Barbara & Kevin Kunz presented in 2003 a milestone in the history of reflexology with: ‘Reflexology: health at your fingertips’. Since then the authors anounced that the book has been published in 12 languages, and over 100.000 copies have been sold.

ABOUT THE AUTHORS:

“Internationally recognized authorities in the field of reflexology, Kevin and Barbara Kunz have been at the forefront of research, teaching, and documentation of reflexology for 25 years. They are the authors of The Complete Guide to Foot Reflexology, Hand Reflexology Workbook + more books, as well as the co-directors of the organization Reflexology Research.”

ABOUT THE BOOK:

“The first fully illustrated guide on the ancient art of reflexology, this book explains how reflexology works pressure applied to “reflex” points on the hands and feet restore corresponding body parts by stimulating natural self healing powers and how to do it. Reflexology features step-by-step sequences, incredible photographic foot and hand reflex charts, and unique computer generated artworks to show which reflexes to press and which techniques to use. Including many visualisations. Reflexology is an invaluable guide for home users or reflexology students.”


READ FURTHER:

  • Reflexology: health at your fingertips (2003)
  • Complete reflexology for life (2007)
  • Learn more about foot reflexology
  •  

    Reflexology

    Reflexology

     

    Reflexology as an alternative massage?:

    “I have heard a lot about reflexology and am interested in it because I think I would benefit from massage. But I am not a fan of being touched. Do you think reflexology would be a good alternative to a full body massage?” Mike, Cape Coral.

    SOURCE: Reflexology news

    Krissy’s answer: 

    Reflexology is very popular! In your foot, there are many reflexology points that, when massaged, you are able to reach all parts of the body. It is also a great way to correct different problems you may be having physically, because you are able to also pinpoint different organs, etc. Since you do not like your full body to be touched, you will be happy to know that you will receive the benefits of a full body massage every time you receive a reflexology treatment.So, I recommend you jump into this treatment feet first and enjoy!

    LEARN MORE ABOUT REFLEXOLOGY:
    REFLEXOLOGY CHARTS | FOOT REFLEXOLOGY
    HAND REFLEXOLOGY | EAR REFLEXOLOGY

    Reflexology foot chart

    July 29, 2008

    Reflexology foot chart

    Reflexology foot chart

    The very first ‘Reflexology foot chart’:

    The first ‘reflexology foot chart’ was developed by Eunice Ingham in North America during the 1930′s. Her reflexology foot charts showed exactly how particular parts of the foot relate to other parts of the body.

    SOURCE: Review of reflexology charts

    Foot reflexology

    'micro-massage' by little fish!

    Reflexology in Singapore

     

     

    Reflexology in Singapore:

    Reflexologists and reflexology centers can be found in Singapore City at: the Ai Sin Foot Reflexology Centre (810 Geylang Road #01-89); Aloha Foot Reflexology (19 Tanglin Rd #01-08 Tanglin Shopping Centre); Aishiteru Accupressure Reflexology Centre (304 Orchard Rd #03-36 Lucky Plaza); and Alpha Healthy Reflexology (104A Tg Pagar Road).”

    SOURCE: Reflexology in Singapore City

    Massage therapy in Singapore City

    Hand Reflexology Chart

    July 11, 2008

    Hand Reflexology Chart

    Hand Reflexology Chart

    Hand Reflexology Chart:

    Hand reflexology may not be as popular as foot reflexology. However, hand reflexology does provide some benefits compared to foot reflexology. For example: our hands are much more accessible than our feet! So the hands make a great self-help tool for adults and children, which explains why hand reflexology charts are also very popular.

    SOURCE:

    reflexology

    reflexology

     

    Interview:

    Kim Smith, a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist

     

    SOURCE:

    Always looking to try something new, I decided to visit the new reflexologist in Lindsay. Kim Smith, a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist and owner of Solely R and R, just so happens to be a foot reflexologist. Not being much of a foot person myself, I have mixed feelings about this new endeavor.
    For me, feet are ugly, smelly and while I respect their purpose and function, I’d rather not think about mine – or have them touched. So for this occasion, I had polished and primped my feet as much as possible to pretty them up, prepping them for the treatment ahead.

    Soft-spoken and welcoming, Ms Smith had me lie back in her surprisingly comfortable chair with my feet up, putting relaxing music on the CD player to enhance the mood.

    Ms Smith explained that the treatment can be very personalized according to the client’s comfort level and she tries to make each experience suit the client.
    She began with one foot, and because the treatment tends to make people cold, she gave me a soft blanket for my body and wrapped the other foot in a towel. After a brief warm-up to get the circulation going, the actual reflexology treatment began.

    The textbook definition for reflexology is ‘a natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the hands, feet and ears which correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on reflexes, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.’
    As Ms Smith described it, each part of the foot corresponds to a part of the body. She began at the top of the big toe of my right foot reflexology, explaining that it represents my head. Using a series of techniques with her fingers including hooking, walking and compression, she worked her way down my foot.

    It did not take long for me to relax and enjoy the treatment, completely forgetting that the thought of a stranger touching my feet had freaked me out just a short time before. As she worked the inner length of my foot (which represents my spine), I could distinctly feel a pleasant tingling run up and down my back.

    We chatted about Ms Smith’s new business and she explained why she felt reflexology and other natural treatments are the perfect answer to today’s fast-paced world and all its stresses. “Everyone is in such a hurry these days. Everything is so fast-paced on a daily basis. I think it’s important for everyone to just take some time out for ourselves – whether it be reflexology or yoga or whatever.”

    There are also more practical benefits then relaxation, she said, “It helps to cleanse your body and it will help your organs function better. It is extremely relaxing.”
    By the time she moved on to my left foot reflexology, I had nearly stopped talking and was lying back and enjoying what feels like a foot massage. Ailments can also be detected through reflexology Ms Smith said, like a disturbance she discovered on the ball of my foot directly below my pinky toe, representing my shoulder. There is a distinct grinding sound as she works the area, and she spends more time on it then the rest of the foot.

    By the time I got up from the chair I couldn’t believe how relaxed I felt – almost too relaxed; considering that I had to go back to work for the rest of the day. All I wanted to do was slip under some covers and have a nap.

    The experience was everything that was promised: relaxing, soothing and ultimately very interesting. I was intrigued to learn that our feet, probably the most underestimated part of the body, can be the gateway to total body health.
    Specific ailments that reflexology is meant to help include: migraine headaches, constipation, arthritis, back pain, allergies, diabetes, asthma, high blood pressure and many others, but Ms Smith is quick to say that everyone can get some measure of benefit from reflexology.
    “In the long-run, basically everyone benefits from it. Let’s face it; no one is in perfect health.” Having just opened, Ms Smith is looking for new clients, and can also make house calls for those who are most comfortable in their own environment.

    To contact Kim Smith at Solely R and R, call: 705-324-1327


    reflexology

     

    Miss Malaysia Angelreena Lim knows how to relax:

    I love a good foot and body massage. I recently visited a massage parlour in Hartamas, which offers good foot reflexology at a reasonable price. I usually crave massages when my feet are too tired due to too much walking and Latin dancing. It really helps me relax.

    SOURCE:


    KUALA Lumpur has been Angelreena Lim’s home for most of her life. The girl with a sweet smile moved from her birthplace of Kedah to the city 17 years ago. Just last week, the 21-year-old Psychology student had a thrilling experience representing Kedah at the Miss Malaysia Universe 2008 beauty pageant.

    “Even though the schedule was packed with challenging activities and it was my first time participating in beauty pageant, I had a rewarding experience with the girls, organisers and during the trip on Star Cruise.
    “I also won three subsidiary titles. It was totally unexpected and I am grateful to be blessed with this opportunity,” Lim said.
    She was named Miss Star Cruise Amity, Miss Celebrity Fitness Hot Bod and Miss BMI and Beauty Mart at the end of the 10-day competition.
    Now back in Kuala Lumpur and in the midst of exams, she says that the city has so much to offer and young adults who plan to live here just need to be themselves and follow their instincts.

    FREE REFLEXOLOGY | REFLEXOLOGY COURSES

    What do you like about KL?

    The thing that I like about KL is its upbeat atmosphere, interesting places, the people and food. It gives a variety of choices and you’ll never find yourself being bored here.

    What do you dislike about KL?

    Traffic jams! That’s the only major setback. But I guess most great cities face the same problem.

    What is your favourite food?

    I would say my favourite food would be the fish head noodle served at SS20, Damansara Kim. It is the corner food stall, which has a pleasant and shady environment. It’s best to complete the meal with their yummy cendol!

    What do you do to relax?

    I love a good foot and body massage. I recently visited a massage parlour in Hartamas, which offers good foot reflexology at a reasonable price. I usually crave massages when my feet are too tired due to too much walking and Latin dancing. It really helps me relax.

    What’s your favourite hang out in KL?

    That has to be Laundry Bar in The Curve. I love the food, music and carefree atmosphere there.

    reflexology

     

    Interactive reflexology hand chart:

    The interactive reflexology map was introduced by experienced reflexologist pioneers, Barbara & Kevin Kunz from Albuquerque, NM, United States.

    SOURCE:


    How does it work? Well, the foot is divided into various dermatomal patterns that corresponds to particular body part or organ in the body. The idea in foot reflexology is to stimulate the particular ‘zones’ of the feet and initiate a corresponding ‘reflex’ that will invoke a beneficial response to that body part or organ.
    The basic concepts of reflexology in the foot include the following:

  • 1 – The fight or flight mechanism is rooted in the soles of our feet by processing environmental stimulus. These sensations, in essence, prepares the body for a possible need in the uptake of oxygen, muscle contraction and levels of blood sugar and whether they are sufficiently met.
  • 2 – Tension in a particular zone of the body can be stimulated to release tension by stimulating the area of the foot responsible for restoring equillibrium in that zone.
  • 3 – Reflexes are thought to work instinctively throughout the foot and pressure to these points can relieve stress.

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    However, it can be argued that this thought process is conceptual. Does pressing the bottom of the big toe, for instance, stimulate the pituitary gland. As Kunz describes, “For example, a single nerve travels from the center of the big toe to the part of the brain responsible for controlling movement, respiration, and cardiac acceleration. So pressure applied to the center of the big toe, the pituitary gland reflex area, triggers a revival response (as in fight or flight)”  
    Now, as any doctor or anatomist will know, there is really not a single nerve that travels from the big toe to the pituitary gland. Also, if this concept is true, scientific testing can validate the concept of pituitary stimulation by stimulating pressure receptors under the big toe. To my knowledge, this has not been studied. Or maybe its just too ludicrous to study? Like many arguments made with alternative medical treatments, it is harder to prove that something doesn’t exist rather than prove it does.