Foot reflexology is based on the premise that there are reflexes in the feet that correspond to all parts of the body and that stimulating these reflexes brings about physiological changes. Reflexology is an ancient healing technique, and evidence that reflexology was first practiced around 2500 to 2300 B.C. was found in the form of carvings on the wall of the tomb of an Egyptian doctor.

According to Ayurveda there are vitals points on the feet. these points are called Marma Points. So we work on the Marma Points of the feet by stimulating them to open the channels of the body and give Healing. This technique is called as Marma Feet Therapy.

We all know that a short foot massage every now and then can really help us relax, particularly after a long day of standing up and walking around, when our feet tend to swell up. Sure, everyone enjoys it, but does it really have any benefits other than making us feel a bit more relaxed and relieving some of the pain?

There are a several different massage techniques that all promise certain health benefits. Traditional therapeutic techniques focus on relaxing the muscles and joints; acupressure seeks to improve general health and energy flow by acting upon specific pressure points; aromatherapy uses scented oils and relaxing music to add an additional element of relaxation by acting upon multiple senses; and reflexology seeks to improve internal organ function by massaging specific areas of the foot.

There are many claims, some fairly outrageous, about what a simple massage can do for you, but there is very little evidence to support them. We will take a look at some of the benefits of foot massage that are supported by actual scientific research – benefits that are either immediate or can be seen and felt after a couple of weeks, even with as little as two to three sessions per week.

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Relaxation

Foot reflexology is effective in bringing about a deep state of relaxation. The solar plexus is the nerve center where stress is stored. When the solar plexus reflex point is pressed, it is as if all of the stress in the body is eliminated. Because stress can greatly affect the immune system and leave one vulnerable to serious illnesses such as cancer, it is important to relieve it. Reflexology can help in this way.

Improved Circulation

Reflexology can improve blood circulation in the feet and throughout the body. The gentle stroking of the feet and the application of certain hand and finger techniques improves blood flow to vital organs. Blood delivers oxygen and nutrients to these organs, nourishing body tissues. If a part of the body is injured, foot reflexology can help repair the injured tissue.

Due to a mostly sedentary lifestyle we have become unaccustomed to using our muscles on a regular basis. The muscles in the feet get hardly any exercise and circulation is often impaired by tight and uncomfortable shoes. A 10–20 minute massage session before going to bed can greatly improve circulation in the lower extremities, which is particularly important for people suffering from diabetes.

Reduction of Pain

Foot reflexology is effective for pain management. When reflexology is applied to the feet, more endorphins are produced to block pain signals to the brain. Endorphins are painkillers that are stronger than morphine. People who are experiencing pain may get significant relief through reflexology.

Regularity

Foot reflexology can bring balance when constipation is an issue. Stimulation of the intestine, colon and other corresponding reflexes can make elimination easier and return it to a normal state.

Improved Memory

Because oxygen is required to keep the cells of the body in a healthy state, foot reflexology can help to deliver vital oxygen to brain cells. Stimulation of the brain reflexes on the feet improves circulation of blood to the head. Foot reflexology, when administered routinely, will help improve a forgetful mind.

Improved Relationship

Reflexology can make your relationship stronger. Touching the feet can be sensual and relaxing, and reflexology can put your partner in a state of relaxation that will heighten the lovemaking experience. Giving your partner a reflexology session is a wonderful expression of love and caring.

Helps prevent foot and ankle injuries

Massaging the feet can help with joint pain and aid recovery after an injury, as well as reduce muscle soreness. However, when massage is combined with foot and ankle strengthening exercises and stretching it can prevent future injuries, as well as speed up recovery of existing injuries. A short session three to five times a week will ensure that you minimize the risk of injury. We all have our moments of clumsiness, but a strengthened and flexible ankle and foot ensures that we can avoid unpleasant injuries.

Reduces the effects of depression and anxiety

Looking at some of the studies that have been done on the effects of reflexology, it seems that this type of foot massage goes beyond simply putting people in a relaxed state for the duration of the massage.

Frequent sessions have been shown to significantly reduce anxiety in cancer patients. The techniques can be learned fairly quickly and can serve as an effective way of dealing with depression and anxiety.

Lowers blood pressure

High blood pressure has become fairly common in modern men and women. It can be caused by a number of things such as stress and an unhealthy diet, but in most cases it has no particular cause and is believed to be a result of environmental factors and genetics. A study conducted on healthcare staff working with elderly people suffering from dementia – a job that is highly stressful and both physically and mentally taxing – showed that a 10-minute foot massage session up to three times a week resulted in improved mood, less anxiety and lower blood pressure.

Helps with flat feet and plantar fasciitis

People with flat feet do not have a normal foot arch due to ligament laxity, which causes the arch to collapse. It can have no major effect on a person, but some people experience foot pain after even mild physical activity due to flat feet. Chronic heel pain can be caused by inflammation or deterioration of the plantar fascia (the connective tissue that supports the arch of the foot). Regular foot exercise coupled with deep massage, where you apply strong pressure on the arch, can help significantly lessen the pain and even cure these conditions.

Helps alleviate symptoms of PMS and menopause

The most common symptoms suffered during PMS include feelings of sadness and unhappiness, irritability, anxiety, tension, insomnia, fatigue, headaches and mood swings. Most of these symptoms can be alleviated with daily foot massages during this period.

In the same vein, symptoms of menopause, which are similar to those suffered during PMS with the addition of hot flashes and depression, can be effectively minimized with regular massages.

Reduces effects of edema in pregnant women

Edema, that is, swelling due to fluid retention in the feet and ankles, is very common in pregnant women, mostly in the last trimester. This condition can be combated by massaging the feet on a daily basis, coupled with plenty of rest and the right diet.

As you can see, foot massage is a lot more beneficial to both physical and mental health than most people realize. Although professional massages can sometimes be a bit costly, there are plenty of resources available online that can help you learn a thing or two about the different styles of foot massage. It only takes some 10–20 minutes a few times a week, so you and your significant other can reap the tremendous benefits of foot massage without a lot of work.