Reflexology is the art and science of stimulating the body’s own healing forces by locating and stimulating certain points on the body that affect organs or functions in other parts of the body. It is usually thought of as work done on the feet, although there are reflex points on the hands and cranium as well as the whole body.

Reflexology is a form of compression massage and is based on the principles that reflex points are related to every organ in the body. By applying pressure to a reflex point, or zone, the practitioner can effect certain beneficial changes. Various parts of the hands and feet are linked to specific glands, organs and muscles. Activating these links, or reflex points with massage can relieve tension, improve blood supply to certain regions of the body, and help to normalize body functions. For example, when reflex massage is administered to the big toe, it is claimed to relieve headache and head tension. When the reflex points for the colon (in the foot) are stimulated constipation can be relieved.

Reflex points of the hands and feet have been mapped out. This has helped to systemize this healing method. Some people are skeptical whether this form of massage is beneficial, while others credit this method with remarkable success. It is a method of bodywork that can be used when other forms are contraindicated for medical reasons.