It’s Entirely Natural - Articles

Where conventional medicine has failed, natural medicine can make a real difference. This is true of herbal medicine, meditation, and massage. This article deals with how reflexology is helping to alleviate symptoms and improve one’s overall health.

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. In most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease. Even the most technically advanced countries such as China and Japan appreciate the effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine. We could benefit from the knowledge that has been gathered by those cultures. Where conventional medicine has failed, natural medicine can make a real difference.

Natural medicine and alternative treatments has become a booming industry. Our society has become interested in how to help cure us from common problems such as allergies, depression and anxiety. With so many products claiming to be the next miracle cure, how do you really know what kind of alternative therapy to use? Maybe it is time to give reflexology a try.

If you are unfamiliar with reflexology, here are the basics: Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure in a strategic manner to areas of the feet and hands, and the face and ears. Reflexologists see the hands and feet as a portal to the body’s systems. Each section of the feet and hands correlate to a specific organ. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, you can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body.

Although reflexologists cannot diagnose or claim to cure a sickness or disease, it is one of the most sought-after treatments today. Not only is it beneficial as a tool for relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. Many with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

What do you do if you don’t like the idea of others touching your feet? What if you can’t afford sessions with a reflexologist? You can opt to learn basic reflexology yourself. I prefer this method not only because it is free, but also because it is convenient. If you want to dig in and learn the basics, there are many online reflexology courses you can take. Moreover, many adult education programs offer weekend reflexology programs. Check with your local school district to find a class near you. Although these weekend seminars will not authorize you to claim yourself as a reflexologist, you will learn enough to effectively treat yourself and your family.

The bottom line is that reflexology has proved to be a therapy that is beneficial for everyone. It is the perfect complimentary medicine whether or not you must take prescription drugs or not. Once you try it you will understand why reflexology has found a permanent place in the health industry.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: anxiety, blood flow, Depression, Fertility, Menopause, Reflexology, relaxation, stress, toxins

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years and still do so today. Even people in the most technically advanced countries, like China and Japan, appreciate the effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine.

There are many reasons for this. One reason is because natural treatments work. Another reason is that there are virtually no side effects. Unlike the latest technology, with its magical pills and promised cure-alls, there are better options out there, like reflexology. As long as you have two hands and two feet, you can self-treat your medical problems, as many have done for centuries before us.

Reflexology is safe for everyone, and it’s been proven effective. Reflexology is the practice of strategically applying pressure to reflexes of the feet and hands as they correspond with specific body organs. This stems from the ancient belief that the nerves in the feet are channels to the rest of the body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, we can stimulate blood flow, reduce stress and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. With this, many forms of sickness and disease can be reversed. At the very least, the symptoms can be effectively treated for a period of time.

Although reflexologists cannot diagnose or cure a sickness or disease, they can nevertheless improve one’s feeling of well-being. That ability to calm a person and reduce pain makes reflexology one of the fastest-growing alternative therapies today. In fact, celebrities pay an arm and a leg for just a few minutes of reflexology.

Not only is it beneficial as a tool for relaxation and stress relief, but reflexology is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and stimulating the immune and nervous systems. It has a beneficial effect on many illnesses and conditions, including allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; acne; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems and even arthritis. Many who suffer from these problems have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

Children can benefit from reflexology in many ways as well. Some of the most common complaints treated by doctors include ear infections, constipation, colic and bed-wetting. Reflexology has been shown to dramatically improve these problems as well as other issues that effect children.

Research has even shown that children with cerebral palsy who received reflexology experienced an increased growth rate over the kids who did not receive therapy. Elderly patients who routinely get reflexology treatment have been able to reduce cholesterol, lower and maintain blood pressure and treat painful digestion better than drugs. Elderly patients who have reflexology mats in their homes experience less pain and a greater sense of control when walking.

Reflexology has made its mark in the world of alternative therapies because it works. If you doubt that reflexology works, try it and see the results for yourself. Once you try it you will be a believer and most importantly, you will be hooked for life. Find yourself a good reflexologist, or better yet, learn the techniques for yourself. Having the knowledge to treat yourself and your family is one of the smartest things you can do.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: blood flow, blood pressure, cholesterol, constipation, digestion, Fertility, Menopause, Reflexology, stress

I have a lot of bones to pick with Western Medicine. We are in such a crisis these days and yet our society still trusts that the people behind western medicine have our best in mind. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Western medicine looks at a disease as a separate entity from the person, as an invader that they must remove. When in fact, disease is a reflection of an individual’s lifestyle, surroundings, habits, beliefs and energies. If you look at cancer for example, when a doctor finds a tumor, they cut it out or attack it with radiation and other harmful chemicals. This does nothing to benefit the patient. It does not get to the root of the cause and it does not protect them from reoccurrence, hence, why it usually shows up elsewhere in the body at some point.

The body is designed to heal itself if we support it correctly and feed it the correct fuel.

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. Furthermore, in most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease, not a last resort. Even the most technically advanced countries such as China and Japan, appreciate the effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine because it works. In fact, we need to pay more attention and take some important lessons from our ancestors if we are going to take our health back.

Reflexology is the practice of strategically applying pressure to areas of the feet and hands as they correspond with specific body organs. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, we can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. Reflexology is not only effective for self-healing, but has made its mark as an effective detoxification procedure as well. And, if you are unaware of the importance of detoxification, please listen up. Toxins are everywhere. The food we eat, the products we clean ourselves with, as well as the air we breathe all contribute to the build up of toxins in our bodies. Without effectively eliminating those toxins from our organs, they will eventually cause havoc and we will be led down the path of sickness and diseases such as cancer.

One of the most common uses for reflexology is for stress relief. In our fast paced society today, everyone is looking for a way to unload the stress of everyday life and for good reason. Stress is a silent killer. The effects of stress have been studied for quite some time and it is known that if you do not release stress from your body on a regular basis, it will eventually wreak havoc on your body in the form of one of many different sicknesses or diseases.

Reflexology is also a beneficial tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems; fibromyalgia; depression and even arthritis report significantly improved conditions as a result of the treatment.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: blood flow, Depression, Detoxification, Fertility, fibromyalgia, Menopause, Reflexology, self healing, stress, toxins

Reflexology is the practice of strategically applying pressure to areas of the feet and hands. Many studies have been done in relation to the effectiveness of reflexology. This paper will review the practice of reflexology, and the results of studies on the practice of this art.

First, what is reflexology? Reflexology is the practice of strategically applying pressure to areas of the feet and hands as they correspond with specific body organs. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, we can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin build-up in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. Reflexology is safe and effective for everyone. Furthermore, it can be used throughout one’s lifetime.

So how can reflexology really help you? Research has found that not only is it beneficial as a tool for relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, detoxification, recovering from surgery, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

Because reflexology works to put the body in a state of well-being, it is beneficial to every system in the body. Reflexology has been shown to relieve many common pregnancy complaints including headache, nausea, backache, stress and anxiety, sleeplessness, fatigue, constipation, swollen ankles and digestive problems. Furthermore, in one study, women that had at least 10 reflexology sessions showed reduced labor times during delivery, and fewer complications of childbirth when compared to women who did not have the treatments.

Children can benefit from reflexology in many ways as well. A few of the most common reasons for conventional medical treatment today are ear infections, constipation, colic and bed-wetting. Reflexology has been shown to dramatically improve these problems. Research has shown that children with cerebral palsy who received reflexology work actually had increased growth rate over the kids who did not receive therapy. There are many additional benefits for children of the practice of this art.

In a society that relies on chemically-laden prescription drugs to cure the sick, especially in the elderly, reflexology provides success stories worth examining. Did you know that elderly patients that routinely get reflexology treatment reduce their levels of cholesterol, reduce and maintain lower blood pressure and treat painful digestion better than drugs? Elderly patients who have reflexology mats in their homes experience less pain and a greater sense of control when walking.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg. For patients recovering from surgery, reflexology can be a dream come true. Studies have shown that patients that received reflexology treatment after surgery experienced far less pain than the patients that received painkillers alone. Moreover, reflexology was shown to be more effective than catheterization in patients with retention of urine after surgery.

Reflexology has made its mark in the world of alternative therapies because it works. Try it and see the results for yourself. Once you try it, you too will become a believer. Find yourself a good reflexologist, or better yet, learn the techniques for yourself. Having the knowledge to treat yourself and your family is one of the smartest things you can do.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: anxiety, blood flow, blood pressure, cholesterol, colic, constipation, Detoxification, digestion, fatigue, Fertility, Menopause, Reflexology, sleep, stress

Are you are suffering from symptoms of the common cold? You may be experiencing head and nasal congestion, sore throat, coughing, headache, sneezing and watery eyes, How to cure it? In most cases, the only ‘cure’ is to tell you that you will just have to wait it out. There are better ways to treat a cold, and this article can help you learn some alternative ways to do so.

I am here to tell you otherwise. The common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory system caused by a virus. Contrary to what you may have been told, cold weather does not cause colds, although most are caught in fall and winter seasons. While the cold doesn’t cause a ‘cold,’ the viruses that cause them thrive in cold weather and low humidity.

Americans spend more than one billion dollars every year on nonprescription medicines for coughs and colds. These products provide temporary relief and in no way address the root of the problem. What can you do about the symptoms of the common cold? There are some easy and effective holistic treatments that do alleviate symptoms.

If you are unfamiliar with reflexology, this will help you to understand how it works, and how it can help you cure your cold. Reflexology is the practice of applying pressure in a strategic manner to areas of the feet and hands, and even the face and ears.

Reflexologists see the hands and feet as an open door to the bodies systems. Each section of the feet and hands correlate to a specific organ. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, you can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. And because reflexology works to put the body in a state of well-being, it is beneficial to every system in the body.

Although reflexologists cannot diagnose or claim to cure a sickness or disease, their results speak for themselves. In fact, celebrities pay an arm and a leg for just a few minutes of reflexology. Not only because it is a beneficial tool for relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems and frequent colds; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

As far as cold symptoms are concerned, you can alleviate symptoms by working specific areas of the feet. In doing so, mucus and will drain from the nose and sinuses. It will also break up congestion in the chest and eliminate waste material. Furthermore, facial reflexology, developed by the Vietnamese, can also alleviate the same symptoms, and in some cases even quicker than foot therapy.

If you suffer from frequent colds and flu symptoms, you owe it to yourself to seek the expertise of a trained reflexologist. When you get to the root of the problem, you will recover much quicker than if you simply mask the problem. Once you try reflexology, chances are you will be hooked when you witness the affects for yourself.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: blood flow, cold, Fertility, headache, Menopause, Reflexology, stress

Reflexology is a method of treatment wherein pressure is applied on various parts of body, particularly on the hands and feet, which are believed to be linked to other specific parts of the body such as the ears. In the science of reflexology, it is believed that energy is constantly circulating between the organs and every living cell in the human body and when such energy is blocked, crystals develop in the reflex zones (e.g. hands, feet and ears). These areas where crystals are developed are the also the very same sources of pain. Reflexologists apply pressure on that area in order to ease the soreness. The reflexologist employs guided methods of treatment and once these blocked energies are eliminated, one can feel invigorated once again.

One common illness that reflexology has been seen as one of the effective methods of treatment is tension headache. People who have been suffering this ailment can attest to the effectiveness of reflexology in easing the pain. Although one can feel quite a sting once the pressure is applied on the affected area, it will gradually disappear.

Another use for reflexology is when one wants to undergo the natural process of detoxification. We all know that unfavorable toxins are common and may even spread rampantly. Toxins may be found in food, in bath soaps and even in the air we breathe. Combine these toxins with stress, even and more toxins build up in our bodies. The human body has four organs that can help remove these toxins namely the colon, lungs, skin and kidneys. However, our bodies have so many toxins that those which the body have not been able to purge in a day, are mostly likely to go to the weakest organ. When these toxins remain in our system that is when we go down with sickness or illness.

To relieve stress is another common use for reflexology. In a society that depends heavily on prescription or “traditional” drugs, many have the urge to at least try other “alternatives”. Reflexology is one of these alternative options and many have attested to its effectiveness.

Reflexology can also help improve blood circulation. It can also be an immune and nervous system stimulator. People with allergies, acid reflux, PMS, migraines, chronic sinus problems, menopause, fertility problems, depression, insomnia and even arthritis verify that reflexology has helped reduce their bouts with these health problems.

Given these testimonies, one cannot help but be encouraged to try reflexology out. Why not? If it has proven, time and again, that it can help numerous people it may also help you too.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: Depression, Detoxification, Fertility, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, toxins

Endometriosis is a growing problem for women, particularly those who delay having children until their thirties. Endometriosis can be described as the abnormal growth of cells that form in the lining of the uterus. This growth can produce a host of symptoms that can be quite severe, including

• unspeakable pain in the uterus, lower back and areas of the pelvic cavity;
• painful intercourse, extremely heavy menstrual cycles;
• nausea; vomiting; constipation; dysuria and
• sometimes infertility.

No one knows just what causes endometriosis, but several theories have been proposed over the years. One theory that is popular among naturopaths and holistic practitioners is that it is caused when endometrial cells spread to the other parts of the body through blood and lymphatic channels. Research has also shown that exposure to environmental PCB’s and dioxins, two types of hazardous waste materials, can cause spontaneous endometriosis.

Most women that have endometriosis have never been pregnant. Furthermore, as many as 40 percent of women who have fertility problems actually have endometriosis. According to the Endometriosis Association, women who develop this problem have a history of more vaginal yeast infections, hay fever and chronic sinus problems, eczema and food sensitivities.

There are many ways to treat endometriosis naturally. Here are just some of the most common recommendations.

Herbs such as alfalfa are a good source of vitamin K, an imperative nutrient necessary for blood clotting and tissue healing. Most patients with endometriosis are iron-deficient. For this the herb Nettle is very beneficial.

Astragalus, garlic, goldenseal, pau d’arco and red clover have antibiotic and anti tumor properties.
Burdock root and red raspberry leaf help to balance hormone levels, and endometriosis symptoms depend on hormone cycles.

It is important to eat a diet of which 50 percent of it is raw fruits and veggies. In addition, you should eliminate all refined flour products and consume only whole-grain products, raw nuts and seeds. A fiber rich diet is also very important.

Avoid alcohol, caffeine, animal fats, dairy products, fried foods, food additives, fast food, red meats, refined and processed foods, salt, shellfish and sugar.

One common recommendation is to fast for three days each month, before the onset of your menstrual period. For this, I would consult a natural health care practitioner.

Reflexology can be beneficial for endometriosis for many reasons. Reflexology stimulates the lymphatic system and encourages the release of endorphins; natural feel good hormones to our entire system.

Reflexology is based on the belief that applying pressure to reflexes on the feet and hands can effectively treat the entire body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology stimulates blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body.

Reflexology is a beneficial tool for promoting relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. Many with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; chronic fatigue, fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: constipation, diet, endometriosis symptoms, fatigue, Fertility, garlic, Menopause, Reflexology, stress

Most people that suffer from acne rely on creams and topical agents to get rid of their acne. The non-prescription items fill shelves on the pharmacy counter, while the prescription aids can have severe side-effects and must be monitored closely by a doctor. Some of these creams and pills should not be taken by people already taking hormones, or who may be pregnant.

Most acne problems are caused by a buildup of toxins in the body, particularly in the colon and lymphatic systems. Acne, like most diseases, starts from a digestive system imbalance. In order to cure acne problems, we must address imbalances in the digestive system and fix the problem at the source.

Most people have never stopped to consider the natural treatments available to them. Of all the holistic treatments for acne, herbal treatments and reflexology show the most promise for long-term relief.

Herbs

Tea Tree Oil is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic. You can use it as full strength oil diluted in warm water and apply as you would a commercial astringent, or use one of many tea tree oil soaps. Tea tree will kill any bacteria or virus it comes in contact with. You could also try eucalyptus oil or a thyme infused wash, which have a similar effect.

Lavender is one of the best herbs to use topically in the essential oil form. Lavender is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic.

Sage is antibacterial, antifungal and antiviral. It has natural tannins, camphor and rosmarinic acid, all of which help repair skin.

Papaya enzymes help to exfoliate and unclog pores. Papaya also promotes healthy skin cell growth, softens and smoothes the skin. For increased benefit, try adding the chewable form to your diet as well.

Burdock root and dandelion leaves cleanse the liver. They also contain inulin, which helps remove bacteria from the skin.

Milk thistle and red clover helps the liver cleanse the blood and lymphatic system.

Reflexology

Reflexology stimulates the lymphatic system and encourages the release of endorphins; natural feel good hormones to our entire system. Reflexology is based on the belief that applying pressure to reflexes on the feet and hands can effectively treat the entire body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology stimulates blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body.

Although reflexologists cannot diagnose or claim to cure a sickness or disease, the results speak for themselves, making it one of the most sought after treatments today. In fact, celebrities pay an arm and a leg for just a few minutes of reflexology. Not only is it beneficial as a tool for relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. Many people with illnesses like allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; acne; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

No matter what your physical or emotional condition may be chances are you will benefit after just one treatment. Many people will go through a course of treatment in order to cure acne problems once and for all.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: acne problems, dandelion, diet, Fertility, Menopause, milk thistle, papaya, red clover, Reflexology, stress, toxins

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. In most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease, not a last resort like many people see it today. Even in technically advanced countries, such as China and Japan, there is an appreciation of effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine and alternative treatments. We could learn a lot from the practice of reflexology and how it can benefit our lives.

Reflexology is a complimentary protocol that works in conjunction with other techniques. It is particularly popular among naturopathic and holistic practitioners. Although the techniques have been proven to be beneficial for a multitude of problems, your reflexologist cannot diagnose or claim to cure any diseases. Reflexology is meant to bring your body to a state of well-being. Only in this state is your body able to heal itself. When your body is full of toxins, your immune system is severely compromised, making you much more likely to succumb to sickness. Reflexology can help prevent that from occurring if used on a regular basis.

One of the most common uses for reflexology is for stress relief. In our fast-paced society today, everyone is looking for a way to unload stress. The effects of stress have been studied for quite some time and it is known that if you do not release stress from your body on a regular basis, it will eventually wreak havoc on your body in the form of one of many different sicknesses or diseases. Stress is a silent killer.

In addition to its uses as a stress reliever, reflexology is also a beneficial tool for improving circulation, relieving pain, and as an immune and to stimulate the nervous system. Many people with illnesses such as allergies, chronic sinus problems, acid reflux, migraines, PMS, menopause, insomnia, fertility problems, fibromyalgia, depression and even arthritis report significantly improved conditions as a result of the treatment.

So how does reflexology work? By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology enhances blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. It is not a complicated technique, although it does have to be learned. And some even say that intuition plays a part in the techniques.

Once you have made the decision to visit a trained reflexologist, you may be wondering what you can expect from him or her. Your therapy session will begin with a questionnaire or one-on-one question and answer session. The purpose of these questions is to get your personal history and determine where your therapy should be most concentrated. For example, if you are going in suffering from frequent migraines and neck pain, your reflexologist will concentrate on the areas of the feet and sometimes the hands, in areas that deal with the head and neck. Of course, you will be treated in all areas of the feet. In order to bring your body to a state of well-being, you must detoxify your organs and this is what happens during reflexology therapy.

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Reflexology.

---

Tags: Depression, Fertility, fibromyalgia, immune system, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, toxins

Thai medicine, which is comprised of diet, medicinal treatment and manipulation techniques, is very effective in treating sickness and disease. Thai massage, like traditional Chinese medicine, focuses on treating the whole person by correcting the imbalance of the body’s energy flow.

Thai massage is made up of four techniques including a therapy similar to shiatsu. The focus is to stimulate energy channels, referred to as “Sen” in Thailand and meridians in ancient Chinese medicine. Shiatsu and Thai massage are very similar, however the main difference is that Thai massage uses pressure along energy channels in both directions, whereas shiatsu only moves in one direction.

Reflexology, another technique used in Thai massage therapy, is based on the belief that applying pressure to reflexes on the feet and hands can effectively treat the entire body. By stimulating nerves on specific areas of the feet and hands, reflexology stimulates blood flow and eliminates toxin buildup in the corresponding organs and systems of the body. Reflexology is a beneficial tool for promoting relaxation and stress relief, but it is also an effective tool for improving circulation; relieving pain, and as an immune and nervous system stimulator. In fact, many people with illnesses such as allergies; chronic sinus problems; acid reflux; migraines; PMS; menopause; insomnia; chronic fatigue, fertility problems and even arthritis have been helped tremendously by reflexology treatments.

The third technique used in ancient Thai massage is blood stopping. I know, it sounds a little weird, but according to theory, cutting off a major source of circulation for up to one minute will result in increased pressure at first. This will make the heart slow down contractions in order to bring down the blood pressure. Then, when the pressure on the artery is released, a fresh supply of blood is rushed to the area, allowing for revitalization and relaxation.

And lastly, Thai massage involves passive stretching exercises. If you are not familiar with passive stretching, this means that the therapist does all of the work. It is done in short intervals, gradually working up to a full range of motion. By stretching and extending your range of motion you ultimately increase blood flow throughout the body.

Far Eastern cultures have been using alternative treatments for thousands of years. Furthermore, in most places of the world, natural medicine is the first line of defense against sickness and disease. Even the most technically advanced countries such as China and Japan, appreciate the effectiveness and simplicity of natural medicine. In fact, we could stand to take some of their knowledge to heart these days. In our society today, one that relies heavily on chemically laden prescription drugs, psychotherapy and surgical procedures to “heal” the sick, there has never been a better time to look into such alternatives. Where conventional medicine has failed, natural medicine can make a real difference. If you are new to alternative medicine, reflexology treatment is a good place to start. It is extremely beneficial; often results are felt after just one treatment. Furthermore, if you opt to learn it yourself, it is free medicine!

---

Scott Meyers is a staff writer for It’s Entirely Natural, a resource for helping you achieve a naturally healthy body, mind, and spirit. You may contact our writers through the web site. Follow this link for more information on Massage Therapy.

---

Tags: blood pressure, chronic fatigue, Fertility, Massage Therapy, Menopause, Reflexology, stress, thai massage therapy, Traditional Chinese Medicine