Reflexology VS. Massage

From the Reflexology Association of Canada ::

How Reflexology and massage differ?

At a quick glance reflexology can look like a simple ear, face, foot or hand massage

Reflexology is a practice with its own history, techniques and premises

Both reflexology and massage involve applying physical pressure to parts of the body and both do so to relieve stress and increase well-being. However, reflexology and massage differ in some basic ways

What is reflexology?

• Reflexology is based on the theory that all of the body’s organs, systems and glands are linked via the nervous system to specific locations on the ear, face, foot or hand

• Applying pressure to one of these points has a reflexive effect on that organ, system or gland

• Reflexology therapists are specialists who under go specific training and certification, different from that of massage therapists

list of main differences::

Reflexology // Massage

• R:: applied to specific areas (ear, face, foot, hand) // M:: applied to the whole body (muscles and connective tissues

• R:: promotes a response in an area removed from the stimulated reflex point // M:: promotes a local response in the muscle and connective tissue

• R:: healing is based on stimulating the nervous system through reflex points // M:: healing is based on direct muscle and connective contact

• R:: improves the function of the organs systems and glands through reflexive stimulation // M:: changes soft tissue through direct stimulation

• R:: specialized understanding of reflex points and related anatomy // M:: specialized understanding of anatomy