According to an article in the Health Guide of the New York times, the average person walks the equivalent of 3 times around the earth in a lifetime. That is enormous wear and tear on the 26 bones, 33 joints and more than 100 tendons, ligaments and muscles that make up the foot.
In a recent survey for the American Podiatric Medical Association, 53 percent of respondents reported foot pain so severe that it hampered their daily function. On average, people develop pain in their 60s, but it can start as early as the 20s and 30s. Yet, except for women who get regular pedicures, most people don’t take much care of their feet.
Our feet can "speak" to us and tell us what ails us if we stop and listen. Reflexology is a great way to "hear" our feet. Through pressure therapy, a professional Reflexologist can detect areas where there is congestion, pain, and irritation. Each area corresponding to a certain organ, part or gland of the body. Foot reflexology is based on the premise that our nerve zones or reflex points go from the bottom of our feet to the top of our head, encompassing all vital organs on the way. A trained reflexologist can put pressure on different meridiens or energy lines on the sole and side of the feet to determine the cause of illness.
In ancient times they stimulated reflexes naturally by walking barefoot over rocks, stones and rough ground, or by using our hands more often to climb, build or work. In today’s modern world we have lost much of nature’s way of maintaining a balanced and healthy equilibrium. Reflexology helps to restore this balance and promote natural health and vitality.
Reflexology helps with many ailments including Arthritis, Asthma, anxiety, back pain, constipation, depression, Eczema, fluid retention, head aches, high blood pressure, Irritable bowel syndrome, menopausal problems, period pains, post natal problems and sinusitis, migraine headaches, infertility, menstruation, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances, digestive disorders etc.
Reflexology focuses on treating the whole body. Reflexology has been shown to improve energy levels, eases tension, relieves stress, brings relief to a wide range of conditions, relaxes, rebalances and harmonises the body. Brings natural healing by helping the body heal itself. Reduces chronic pain, calms the nervous system, lowers blood pressure, speeds recovery from injury and illness, strengthens the immune system, reduces tension headaches, reduces mental stress,improves circulation and lymph flow, improves concentration, promotes better sleep, reduces anxiety and promotes well being.
Other foot care tips are to try and avoid pressure from shoes that don't fit right. Look for good, supportive shoes that have some type of arch support. Not sitting for long periods of time and if you have to, elevate the feet. Also in cold weather it's important to keep your feet warm. Try not to expose your feet to extreme temperature changes. Keep toenails trimmed and short. Soaking feet in warm water with 1/2 cup of epsom salts will help push toxins, soothe aches, remove odor and help relax the nervous system.
