Reflexologists say that reflexology helps relieve stress, which helps the body heal and regenerate itself. There are several theories about how this process works.
Theory #1: Reflexology works with the central nervous system.
This idea builds on the research carried out in the 1890s by Sir Henry Head and Sir Charles Sherrington, who first demonstrated through their research that there is a sensory relationship between the skin and internal organs, and that the entire nervous system adjusts itself to stimuli.
According to this theory, the reflexologist’s use of pressure on the feet, hands, or ears sends a soothing message from the peripheral nerves in these extremities to the central nervous system, which also signals the body to adjust the level of stress. This improves overall relaxation, brings the internal organs and their systems to a state of optimal functioning, and increases the blood supply (which brings more oxygen and nutrients to the cells and improves the removal of waste). It positively affects the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, immune, and neuropeptide systems in the body.
