19+ SAMPLE Reflexology Charts

What Is a Reflexology Chart?

First and foremost, we must fully know and understand the definition of reflexology. It is one of the most famous kinds of massage. It is also one of the most in-demand massages in our world today. It is derived from the idea that certain pressure points on our feet are linked and represent different organs inside our bodies. With that being said, a reflexology chart is a graphical representation of what organs are linked to those certain reflex points or pressure points. It is a map that shows where you have to apply the pressure in order to relieve the pain.

What Are the Basic Elements of a Reflexology Chart?

This is a simple type of chart that is only made up of 2 key components.

Sections and zones: No matter what the kind of reflexology chart it is, it will all still look the same with the partitions dividing it. These areas are often called as sections or zones. They are the division and they are also the pressure points connected to each of your organs.Name of the organ: Another key element is naming each sections or zones to their corresponding organs. This will give the practitioner an understanding of where to precisely apply the pressure.

What Are the Different Types of Reflexology Charts?

The most common of all is foot reflexology. However, there are also other tools or charts in reflexology.

A reflexology chart for the hands.A reflexology chart for the outer ear.A reflexology chart for the face.A reflexogy chart for the neck.A reflexology chart for the teeth.

How to Create Your Own Reflexology Chart?

By downloading the templates available above you are on your way to having your very own chart. These templates can be modified according to your needs.

Step 1: Based on Your Knowledge

Make sure that the template you will choose is based on what you know. If you are a practitioner of foot reflexology then look for and select a chart for that one. It is important to base the template of your choice depending on your scientific knowledge and actual experience.

Step 2: Inspect the Templates

They are a variety of choices for each type of reflexology chart. Make sure to consider the advantages and disadvantages of each template. You can make use of the pros and cons in order to arrive at a sound judgment.

Step 3: Evaluate and Revise

Make sure that you have extensive knowledge about the different pressure points. There are a lot of charts available. If you are not sure you can cross-reference to check if what you know is actually correct.

In order to be proficient in what you do, you need to have a high level of knowledge of the subject at hand and countless practical experiences.

What Are the Benefits of Reflexology?

Overall relaxation: This one of the major benefits of having reflexology or zone therapy. Getting one gives you the same feeling you get when having a full-body massage. It can improve the blood circulation in our body which results in a lower level of stress and anxiety, it means that we feel a sense of calmness and overall relaxation after whole process.Reduces pain: Almost all people who get sick today experience the same symptoms. It is all a product of constant stress and tension. If our body is in a relaxed and optimal state, our immune system will function properly.Improves blood supply: There should be an adequate supply of blood in all our organs and glands, in order for them to properly play their role. The nerve plays a crucial role in delivering blood all over our body. As a simple analogy, if our body is similar to that of a house, the nerves are that of the electrical wirings.Helps in achieving and maintaining homeostasis: If the body is working too much it can cause some complications. Also, if the body is in a poor state and does not function properly, it will result in major problems. Reflexology can help the body attain its optimal state. Having stability in the levels of our bodily functions is another important benefit.Helps in proper digestion: One of the pressure points in our feet is directly linked to our stomach. Proper stimulation of this specific point will help in improving our digestive tract.Improve sleep: Now that we are in the digital age, most of our time is spent in front of our mobile phones or laptops. Spending too much time staring at our screens causes too much stress and strain in our eyes Improving the overall circulation of blood and other bodily functions helps in having a good night’s sleep.
Overall it helps in recharging our energy in order to have the strength to perform daily activities. This can help increase the quality of life and our productivity. Reflexology also releases endorphins or also known as feel-good chemicals, which act as a sedative. It also helps us cope up with stress and anxiety. It can also help in cleansing the body and free it from various toxins.

How about for specific illnesses?

Cancer patients: Those with breast and lung cancer can also benefit from this. A study on a hospital was conducted in 2000 by Stephenson et al, patients who received this showed a remarkable pain reduction. One another randomized clinical trial and three non-randomized controlled clinical trials conducted in 2010 by Kim, Lee, Kang, Choi and Ernst, showed an overwhelming result. Patients who underwent the process had an outstanding reduction in pain, vomiting and nausea. Also, all the patients who received the reflexology process had an overall improvement in their sleep and mood. In another controlled study with 87 cancer patients conducted in 2000 by Hodgson, everyone showed an improvement in their quality of life. This study was then repeated by Milligan et al. in 2000, but, this time there were only 20 patients. Nevertheless, everyone still showed an improvement in their quality of life.Diabetes patients: According to a random clinical trial conducted in 2014 by Dalai et al, those who received reflexology showed improvements in having less pain, the conductivity of the nerves as well as the sensitivity to thermal and vibration.Migraine patients: According to a random test conducted in 2000 by Testa, patients who underwent foot reflexology showed great improvement. It is said that it is as effective as a therapeutic drug.

Is It Considered Safe?

In general circumstances, it is a safe process. That is why it is an accepted practice all over the world. However, if you have fractures, gout, open wounds, foot injuries, or blood clots it is not advisable to undergo the whole process. For women who are pregnant, there are certain reflexologies that can help induce labor. Even so, it is still highly advisable to consult with your doctor first before setting an appointment with your reflexologist.

How Does It Work and What to Expect On Your First Session?

Most of the practitioners will ask some questions before going on with the whole process. They may also explain to you how it works and give a brief description. It is also important to communicate with your practitioner and be honest with them if you have certain conditions or complications. After all that the process of applying pressure on your reflex points will commence. For what to expect, while some people instantly feel relaxed, for others it may take a while. According to Dr. Dustin Martinez, a chiropractic physician based in Los Angeles, everyone heals at their own pace or time.

FAQs

How does it differ from a massage and acupuncture?

A massage and reflexology are often mistaken to be the same. They are both under the category of therapy and both give a lot of benefits. However, there are several key differences. A massage handles a more broad area. It also focuses on soft tissues in our bodies. It is recommended more if you are looking for general relaxation. While reflexology is focused on a specific area. It has a target area and applies pressure on the particular reflex point. Lastly, just like in reflexology, acupuncture also focuses on pressure points. The difference is that acupuncture does not only focus on the feet but the entire body. Also, it uses thin needles to penetrates the skin.

Are there any side effects?

According to a survey by foot pain explored, each patient or client felt an increase in their urination. Also, some felt emotional, drowsiness and headaches. However, these headaches and drowsiness were short-lived and only due to the feeling of lightness. It is important to note that keeping hydrated after the process is important.

What is the zone theory in reflexology?

This is a popular theory when talking about reflexology. It states that in our body there are 10 vertical zones that contain different parts of the body and links to our fingers and toes. This was backed up by the father of reflexology, William H. Fitzgerald, MD, he then wrote that there are really 10 vertical zones that if applied pressure to a specific zone it helps in relieving pain on their corresponding body parts or organs.

What is its origin?

It is commonly considered that reflexology was derived from ancient Chinese medicine. According to the University of Minnesota, the book Yellow’s Emperor Classic of Internal Medicine was the first known source about examining the foot. That book was then translated by Marco Polo. After that reflexology and massage were introduced to Europe. Also, in 1582 a book entitled zone therapy was published by Dr. Adamus and Dr. A’tatis. In the US, William H.  Fitzgerald, MD, then wrote about the ten vertical zones in 1917. It was then expanded by Dr. Shelby Riley, and he developed a map of the zones and pressure points on the feet and hand.

Is reflexology medically proven?

It is not scientifically proven and medically proven for the treatment of diseases. However, studies recommend that it is an effective complementary treatment. Especially for stress and anxiety. It can help in alleviating some pain and tension. Nevertheless, because there are no bad side effects, a lot of people still try this because it helps in improving their mood and health.

No matter how experienced and good you are, it is still important to have a reflexology chart. In order to have a success rate of a hundred percent, a chart will be necessary. It will be very helpful and useful if you have a chart by your side at all times. This will greatly be of service to you as a practitioner in order to effectively relieve the patient of any stress or pain. A chart will consistently lead the way so that you will accurately apply pressure on the reflex points. A visual representation can also be comforting and encouraging for the clients. Download our templates above and give them a try. They will not disappoint you.