Expressed Tension
There will be tenderness and sensitivity in the feet, due to tension and foot pain. It's a good idea to be aware of the expressions of tension and to know what they mean. Tension may be expressed in a number of ways during the session as reflexology allows for the release of this stress:
A jumping or twitching of the body
A sharp, pricking sensation
A warm, tingling feeling
A floating, euphoric feeling
A dull ache, especially in the legs
A rush of energy
A cramping in the toes
Twitching or Pricking Feeling
The body and feet may twitch or jump as energy begins to circulate. Areas that were deprived of blood and nerve stimulation begin to “wake up,” responding to this flow. This is often accompanied by a feeling of warmth as the circulation picks up. At times a rush of energy may spurt through the body, and the receiver will actually glow with renewed color in the face.
The sharp, pricking feeling seems as though you are sticking a pin into the foot of the receiver. The sensation is immediate, not prolonged. This generally indicates a congested area of the foot and some blockage along the energy pathway. This painful sensation indicates the need to move away from the reflex for the moment, but to return later. Usually the pain will not reoccur when the area is again reflexed later in the session.
People who live high-stress lives, without meditative breaks, often feel a dull ache in their legs. This ache is a good thing. The presence of aches in the legs generally indicates the tension is leaving the body. As the session progresses, the dull ache is usually dispelled, leaving a relaxed feeling, which the recipient will learn to identify.
Alert
If a receiver has a history of vascular distress, or any cardiovascular issues, pains in the legs may indicate an underlying situation. Always make a referral. Recommend that the receiver check in with her or his physician to relate what may be symptoms. The doctor will thank you.
Cramping
Cramping in the toes or legs is generally a release of lactic acid, a natural compound in the body. Overproduction of lactic acid can cause accumulation in the blood and muscle tissue. Reflexology releases this buildup as the circulation of blood and oxygen is promoted during the session. The cramping does go away.
Often physically active people may have cramping. Make it a practice to ask if they warm up before exercise and most important, if they stretch after. Stretching after exercise is key to body performance. Learn basic leg stretches to teach to your receivers.
Floating, Euphoric Feeling
The floating and euphoric sense of well-being that comes during the session is the most frequent response. All recipients of reflexology do reach this state. As a sense of trust is established, the receiver is willing to let go and relax completely. The greatest compliment a giver may receive is for a person to fall asleep. When a receiver begins to snore and drool, you know you've done a good job!
