Foot Reflexology Charts

Foot reflexology is a field of alternative healthcare that involves applying pressure to certain areas of the sole of the foot. As a time-honored tradition in Chinese traditional medicine, massaging the foot in this way brings inner balance and restores health. From relieving back pain and migraine to providing relief in chronic illnesses like asthma, neuropathy, and multiple sclerosis, foot reflexology has gained widespread popularity as a non-invasive treatment.

How Does It Work?

The main philosophy behind the foot reflexology massage is that certain points of the foot correspond to organs in the body and that by manipulating these, one can improve health through one's QI or lifeforce energy. Reflexology therapists divide the foot into ten equal vertical zones: five on the left foot and five on the right foot. If the energy field of Qi is blocked, it can prevent healing. Thus, by relieving pressure on a specific point, the therapist tries to unblock the energy surrounding the organ and bring balance to the body. One theory about the effectiveness of foot reflexology massage is that by massaging the feet, endorphins are released in the body, which are pain-relieving chemicals naturally produced by the body. So, if you get a reflexology session, endorphins are released to bring a sense of calm and balance to your body. Besides pain relief, practitioners of reflexology also believe that this therapy can help with sleeping, reduce stress, improve digestion, and help with the complications of diabetic foot.

What are the pressure points?

So now that we have talked about some of the benefits of foot reflexology, we can take a look at what these “pressure points” actually are. According to reflexology therapists, various parts of the foot can affect the health of certain organs in the body when massaged or stimulated. Some of the pressure points are listed below:

• Big toe: Brain, head, and pituitary gland
• Ball of the foot: Chest and upper body
• Foot arch: Digestive system
• Heel: Lower body
• Outer edge: Limbs and joints

Within these sections, there are more specific reflex points that target particular organs and systems. For instance, the upper heel, center of the heel, and outer heel represent the sciatic nerve, reproductive organs, and lower back and hip.

What Happens in a Reflexology Session?

A typical reflexology session can last anywhere between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the client’s needs. The therapist applies pressure to specific areas of the foot by using their fingers and thumb and sometimes knuckles. There are many techniques used by the therapists, like thumb walking, circular motions, and direct pressure on the pressure points. The pressure is not intense but firm enough to stimulate the affected organs. Reflexology massage is always given without socks and shoes, as direct skin contact is necessary if you want the massage to be effective. Sometimes, a therapist might use some essential oils to enhance the experience, but traditionally it is done without any oils and lotions. These ready-to-print reflexology charts are a useful guide if you want to learn more about the pressure points on the feet for your personal study or want to display them at your wellness center. In each chart, you will find a detailed breakdown of the major zones and sub-sections for clarity and accuracy about the exact location of the pressure points and the corresponding organs. Download these high-quality Reflexology Charts and practice healing techniques with confidence!