The following reactions to a reflexology treatment are quite common:
Temporary worsening of symptoms
Runny nose or cold-like symptoms
Headache
Skin reaction, especially on the - skin is expelling toxins
Increased sweating, especially from the hands and feet
Increased thirst - drinking aids the process of ridding toxins
Increased urination and more frequent bowel movements
Feeling cold or hot - if cold, the blood is feeding internal organs; if hot, it is feeding the more outer-lying part of the body, such muscles and skin
Feeling emotional, to the point of crying, or being ‘on a high’
Feeling tired or full of energy - the result of improved circulation
Feeling irritable or restless, or deeply relaxed
Increased movement in the hands - the result of manipulation during reflexology
Sounder sleep
Disappearance of symptoms or relief of pain.
We react to treatments in this way because:
It is part of healing process
There is a release of toxins into body - working on the reflex points breaks up the lactic acid and calcium crystals which have built up around the nerve endings in the feet or hands (7200 in the hand, but fewer in the feet).
Rebalancing energy pathways releases tension or pent-up emotions
After a treatment has come to an end, it is important to drink plenty of water to help flush toxins from the syste