Reflexology & Reiki - Understanding What They Are

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Reflexology is a non-invasive, body-based  modality that uses focused pressure on specific points of the feet (and sometimes the hands and ears) to support relaxation, circulation, and nervous system balance. The work is based on the idea that reflex points correspond with systems throughout the body, and that working these points supports the body's ability to settle, regulate, and restore balance.

In practical terms, reflexology is often chosen for one main reason: it reliably brings people into a calmer state. Unlike massage,  the aim of reflexology is not tissue manipulation. Instead, it works through precise touch and pressure to stimulate sensory pathways (reflexes) that influence the body's regulatory systems. Sessions are fully clothed and typically experienced as deeply calming, grounding, and restorative. 

At its core, reflexology is about regulation -- helping the nervous system shift out of stress-driven patterns and into a state where rest, digestion, repair, and clarity become more accessible.

How Reflexology Works

The feet contain thousands of nerve endings and sensory receptors. By working specific reflex points, reflexology engages the body's natural communication networks, particularly those involved in stress response and relaxation.  Current research studies using functional MRIs have begun to explore how foot reflexology stimulation corresponds with changes in brain activity and blood flow in specific regions. Although research is still in the preliminary stages, results are consistent.

What A Reflexology Session Looks Like

Sessions are conducted in a comfortable seated, reclined, or lying position. Only footwear is removed. Minimal, if any, oils or lotions are required.

Using structured thumb and finger techniques, focused pressure is applied to the feet in a systematic way. The experience is typically soothing, though some areas may feel tender, often reflecting areas of tension or sensitivity in t he body. Sessions are unhurried, respectful, and adapted to each individual's comfort and needs.

Many clients experience:

• A deep sense of calm
• Reduced physical tension
• Improved sleep quality
• Mental clarity and emotional steadiness
• A greater sense of overall balance

A Clear Boundary: Reflexology is not a massage or a "foot rub." While massage works with the musculoskeletal system, reflexology works with the body's nervous system.

Reiki is a non-invasive practice, originating in Japan, that supports calm, balance, and nervous system regulation through gentle, focused touch or hands-on presence. Reiki is based on the idea that energy is in and all around us, and when internal and external energy flow freely, we can enjoy a sense of peace and harmony.  Sessions are quiet and restful, allowing the body and mind to shift out of habitual patterns and into a more settled, receptive state.

In practice, Reiki is often chosen for its ability to reduce internal noise, supporting emotional steadiness, mental clarity, and a sense of grounded ease. Many people experience Reiki as subtle but deeply regulating, especially when sessions are received consistently over time.

How Reiki Works

Clinical studies ;and research are ongoing, and so far, it is believed that Reiki works by creating the conditions for the nervous system to settle and reorganize itself. Through gentle, attentive touch and stillness, the body is given a clear signal of safety, allowing stress responses to soften and internal regulation to improve.

What A Session Is Like

Clients remain fully clothed and are typically positioned either lying down on a massage table or seated in a chair. During a session, the therapist's hands are placed lightly on or just above the client's body. Pressure is minimal or absent. Most clients describe the experience as deeply relaxing with a sense of calm that continues after the session ends.

Beyond Relaxation

While Reiki is commonly sought for stress relief, its deeper value lies in how it supports presence and internal coherence over time. With regular sessions clients often notice greater emotional stability, clearer boundaries, and an increased ability to self-regulate during daily life.

What Reiki is For

Reiki is appropriate for people who want:

• Support for stress, overwhelm, or emotional fatigue
• A non-manipulative, fully clothed session
•  A modality that complements both medical care and other wellness approaches
• A quiet, respectful approach that does not require talking or analysis

A Clear Boundary: Reiki is considered a complementary practice. It is not a medical treatment and does not diagnose or treat disease. A Reiki practitioner will never give medical advice.