In reflexology, pressure is applied to the feet, hands and ears with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. It is an ancient healing art practised by the Egyptians thousands of years ago.

Reflexology is non-invasive, working simply on the basis of applying pressure to our reflex receptors. Pressure receptors in the feet and hands are very important centres of the body's reflex response circuit. Reflexology taps into our reflex network when the pressure that we apply stimulates the pressure receptors. The pressure receptors will then send signals to the relevant internal organs to effect the necessary adjustments.

Our body is reflected on our feet and hands like a map and that serves as a guide for the techniques of applying pressure. When pressure is applied to reflex receptors, electrical impulses are transmitted to the organs and glands to effect physical changes in the body by clearing blocked energy pathways and stimulating the release of hormones such endorphins. Endorphins are like morphine; they relieve pain and provide a sense of euphoria and well-being.

Improves nerve function

Reflexology is believed to be holistic. It works on the body, mind and spirit. It normalises body functions by defusing tension and ameliorates stress as the feet and hands help to set the tension level for the rest of the body.

So the pressure receptors in the hands, feet and ears can be easily manipulated to interrupt the stress signals and regularise the metabolic and homeostatic activities of the body. Essentially, this results in improved nerve function and blood flow throughout the body. Reflexology has quite an impressive track record of relieving back pain, arthritis, sinusitis, diabetes, hypertension, tension headaches and rejuvenating tired feet.

Relaxing experience

Once the art of reflexology has been mastered, it can be performed quite easily. However, the assistance of a practitioner might be necessary to provide you with the most relaxing experience and the hands-on practice needed. After you have mastered the skill of performing reflexology, it is easy to multi-task. So you can do your regular daily activities while doing some reflexology. An activity can be done with the feet even when your hands are involved in some other activity and vice versa.

Reflexology, like most other exercise routines, works best when it is applied consistently so that it can provide you with an ongoing relaxing experience. A half-hour to one-hour session is the norm. If someone else is administering the prescription, you need to ensure that it is in your comfort zone because if too much pressure is applied to your reflex receptors, you could sustain injuries instead of enjoying the therapeutic benefits.

Dr Kenneth Gardner is an exercise physiologist at Holiday Hills Research Center; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.