The ancient Chinese practice of reflexology is not new to the United States, but many people only know it as that “thing the therapists do with the feet.” Reflexology, sometimes called reflex therapy or zone therapy, divides the body into ten vertical zones, similar to the meridians in Chinese medicine, and the organs, valves, muscles, and so on that reside within each zone are connected through the central nervous system to pressure points on the feet, hands, or ears. There is a neurological relationship between the skin and the internal organs, and putting pressure on certain specific reflex points on the feet and sometimes the hands and ears sends a calming message throughout the central nervous system.
Reflexology relies on small and intense movements on various parts of the feet, hands, or ears—addressing the reflex points that correspond to the pain or tension felt in the body. The touch and pressure movements are…
