Reflexology is also known as zone therapy. The feet and the hands are the focal point of this type of massage. It is believed that particular points in the feet correspond to certain parts of the body and that the application of pressure on the reflex points in the feet will have a healing effect on the body parts connected to it. The foot is said to be like a map which is used as a basis for the reflexologist in his treatment.

The origin of reflexology is not clear. It is no doubt an ancient healing practice and how it came about can be attributed to the Egyptians, the Chinese or the Indians. It is also possible that this practice was also existent in the Inca civilization that passed it on to the Native Americans and ultimately became widespread in the US.

In the early twentieth century, a book was published by Dr. William H. Fitzgerald and Dr. Edwin Bowers detailing the efficacy of the application of pressure on certain points of the feet in pain relief. There were other individuals who followed their footsteps and conducted their own research on reflexology.

The reflexology treatment session typically lasts between forty to forty five minutes followed by a fifteen minute hand reflexology. Some practitioners though take about an hour to finish depending on the receiver’s condition. The main tool used in reflexology is the hand. The finger is used to exert pressure on the foot starting from the toe area on to the heel. There are reflexologists who use simple equipments like a short wooden rod for the application of pressure.

When the pressure is applied and the part of the foot feels tender and causes discomfort, it is said that the body part connected to that area may have some problems. In some cases, the sensation felt is like a sharp pain. The tenderness may still be felt even after the session but will gradually stop. Those who have congested sinus might have a runny nose because of the treatment but it ceases shortly. Some may have more frequent bowel movements or urination. These are natural reactions during the initial stage of the reflexology therapy. During the session, the individual reclines on a seat with feet raised.

The initial reflexology sessions are done weekly for three to six weeks after which it can be done once a month depending on the prevailing conditions. The monthly sessions will be for the maintenance of good health and the prevention of the emergence of some medical conditions.

Adverse side effects are not very common though there are some people who are asked to refrain from undergoing such treatments. Diabetics and pregnant women should exercise extreme caution in having reflexology done on them because it might cause some complications.

Reflexology is often effective in alleviating chronic back pain and stress. Fibromyalgia or the inflammation of the body’s connective tissues may benefit from a reflexology therapy. Chronic fatigue can also be lessened with regular reflexology sessions.

Sports Massage Therapy

Sports massage therapy is performed mainly on athletes. The event in which the athlete is involved determines largely how this kind of massage therapy will proceed. Specific events have different needs and this is true with athletes.

Sports massage therapy primes the athlete’s body for the athletic activity then helps it recuperate from the exertion done during the event. It soothes sore muscles, eases stress and fatigue. It also maintains the suppleness and top condition of the muscles.

Sports massage is a combination of strokes very similar to Swedish massage like the effleurage and petrissage. This therapeutic massage is usually done before and about two hours after an athletic event.

Another spa therapy method which has become very popular lately despite its existence for several decades is the body stone massage. It has a highly soothing and relaxing effect and can greatly lessen stress.

The stones used for this type of massage are known as basalt stones. These volcanic rocks can absorb heat and retain it for some time. It is this heat that creates the loosened and easing effects on the tight muscles. Thus, one attains a deeper level of relaxation.

The stones are thoroughly cleansed and heated in water which has a temperature of a hundred twenty to a hundred fifty degrees. It is then used to massage the individual with the use of strokes similar to that of the Swedish massage. When the stone becomes cold, the therapist uses another one.

The basalt stones used for hot stone massage have been smoothed and flattened. They come in various sizes but the most commonly used are about the size of an egg. The stones are kept heated in a temperature controlled unit. This ensures that it will not be too hot. The therapists handle the heated stones as well so they can also determine if it is too hot. Individuals though are encouraged to inform the therapist if the heat cannot be tolerated.

It is also possible that the heated stones be left on particular areas of the spine, between the toes or on the palms. In some cases the hot stones are alternated with cold stones or marble stones. For injured muscles or inflamed areas cold stones are used.

Hot stone massage can offer pain relief and relaxes the deep muscles and tissue. It also serves to release toxins from the body and it generally improves blood circulation. It is also a stress buster and promotes calmness thus alleviating anxiety.

Hot stone massage can also do wonders for those people who have insomnia and are often depressed. Since the healing heat can penetrate the inner muscles, it is also good for fibromyalgia and arthritis. The heat also eases muscular pains especially in the back.

It also goes well with individuals who are easily chilled and are afflicted with cold feet. People who like lighter massage can have this done because the therapist does not need to use deep pressure to relax the body.

There are several people who are not supposed to have a hot stone massage. Precautions should be taken with them. People with open wounds or those who just had surgery should avoid having a hot stone massage. Those with heart conditions should consult with their doctors first before getting one.

Those who are likely to develop deep vein thrombosis or already have that condition should steer clear of hot stone massage or any massage in general to avoid having the blood clots dislodged and travel to the lungs or heart. Pregnant women as well should be cautious. They have to make sure that the therapists are certified and experienced in performing massage on pregnant women.