How Seniors can Benefit from Reflexology

By Stefanie Sabounchian

When our feet ache we feel it all over our body. This can easily cause us to slow down in our daily activities which can further slow down the various systems within the body, such as circulatory, respiratory, and cardiovascular systems.

Reflexology can help to minimize this cycle of slow down.

Reflexology is a non-invasive natural health science based on the concept of reflex maps on the feet, hands, and outer ears which correspond to every part, organ, and gland in the body. When health imbalances occur in our body, blockages of different chemical types accumulate in the corresponding reflexes located in the feet, hands, and ears. By gently breaking down these blockages, the corresponding part of the body is also likely to experience some form of relief. Balance and health often return to the affected areas.

 

The many health benefits of Reflexology include pain reduction, improved circulation, increased oxygen and nutrient supply to the brain, enhanced post-operative rehabilitation, and strengthening of the immune system.

 

Reflexology is known to help with neuropathy by improving circulation, stimulating nerves, and relieving pain. Therefore, Reflexology can be a very effective way to help with any form of peripheral neuropathy. Recovering from hip or knee replacement almost always involves some pain and swelling in the leg. One of the great benefits of Reflexology is that it improves the blood and lymph circulation, which, in turn, helps to speed up the healing process, in addition to pain reduction.

 

The existing research into the effectiveness of Reflexology in treating arthritis has focused on its ability to reduce pain and/or the need for pain medications. Regular sessions have been shown to be a very useful therapy for managing the pain, stiffness and swelling of joints, and other issues associated with arthritis in any part of the body.

 

What happens during a Reflexology session? After a brief health history is taken, you lie down on a cushioned Reflexology table, only your shoes and socks are taken off. While the Reflexologist is working on your feet, hands, and ears you may experience waves of relief taking you deeper into profound relaxation. You feel aches and strains melting away.

 

Stefanie Sabounchian is nationally certified reflexologist with a private practice in La Verne. In addition, Stefanie offers reflexology sessions at the Hillcrest Retirement Community in La Verne on Tuesdays. To make an appointment, please call Stefanie at 909-896-3610.