
The theory behind reflexology is similar to acupressure. Reflexology is based on the theory that points to the feet, hands, and face known as the reflexes. These correspond to specific parts of the body including bones, glands, organs, and muscles. They are linked through ten vertical zones in which energy flows. These begin in the feet and hands and continue up to the head. If the energy flow withing any of these zones becomes blocked, illness may occur. Stimulating the reflexes using the fingers and thumbs is claimed to produce physiological changes that remove these blockages and encourage the mind an body to self-heal.
Complementary therapy practitioners view illness as a sign that physical and mental well-being have been disrupted, and attempt to restore good health by stimulating the body's own self-healing and self-regulating abilities. They claim that total well-being comes from the mind and body being in a state of of balance called homeostasis. Homeostasis can be achieved by following the type of lifestyle advocated on this blog: a health diet, plenty of fresh air, proper exercise, sleep and relaxation, combined with stress management and a good solid positive mental attitude.