Foot reflexology: Care and overall balance
Each area of your foot corresponds to a specific organ or function in your body. Foot reflexology is a gentle technique, derived from traditional medicine, based on this principle of correspondence (similar to the principle of ear reflexology). Through precise pressure on these reflex zones, our practitioners restore your energy balance and improve your circulation.
In the 1930s, Dr. E. Ingham created a foot map, still used today, which includes 80 reflex zones.
“The discipline is based on a premise: each part of the foot, not just the arch, corresponds to a part of the body ” Elise Manzoni, President of the French Federation of Reflexologists.
Much more than just a massage
For us, foot reflexology is a true act of prevention. Each session begins with a diagnosis of your health, which will allow us to precisely adjust the pressure and stimulation areas to be treated.
Why are the French adopting this type of treatment?
Reflexology is rapidly gaining recognition in France, particularly in hospitals for stress and pain management.
- Stress reduction: According to a study by the French Federation of Reflexologists (FFR) , more than 75% of beneficiaries notice a significant decrease in their stress level from the very first session.
- Sleep disorders: Clinical trials indicate that reflexology improves sleep quality in 60% of people suffering from mild to moderate insomnia, by lowering cortisol levels, the well-known stress hormone.
- Toxin drainage: By stimulating the lymphatic system, reflexology promotes the elimination of toxins. Measurements show improved venous return in 2 out of 3 patients , according to a study by the French Reflexology Federation (FFR).
Reflexology in the Hospital
Convinced by this approach, the Institut Mutualiste Montsouris (IMM) in Paris launched a program in 2021 to integrate reflexology into pain and anxiety management. The institute has been offering reflexology sessions to some of its patients for the past five years.
Sources: Impact of Reflexology on Stress (Study 2023-2024)
Reflexology and Functional Disorders – Cairn.info / Dunod
Immediate and lasting results
Beyond deep relaxation, reflexology supports your immune system, helps with better emotional management, and alleviates chronic pain. It is also a treatment that aims to restore the body’s self-regulating abilities.
Advice from Natacha, an expert in foot reflexology:
“I encourage you to wake up your circulation first thing in the morning. Get into the habit of rolling a small ball, like a tennis ball or massage ball, under the soles of your feet for two minutes every day; this stimulates the reflex zones and energizes the whole body.
You can also massage your solar plexus. This helps release stress. To do this, gently massage the center of the arch of your foot with your thumb using slow, circular motions; this key point helps regulate emotions and free up breathing. You’ll see, it’s very effective.
Finally, if, like many of us, you have trouble sleeping, before going to bed, massage the base of your big toes, an area linked to mental relaxation, to calm the flow of your thoughts (which are sometimes far too active!). This will give you the best chance for a deep rest.