REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology is when pressure is applied to specific points of the foot,” says Bodner. “It’s thought that different parts of the foot correlate with different organs and parts of the body.”

For example, pinching the tops of your toes is believed to help with sinuses, while pressure applied to your heel claims to help with lower back and sciatic nerve pain.

Many reflexologists use a foot chart to show them where they need to apply pressure to help with certain areas of the body. There are also pressure points on your hands and ears that some reflexologists may target during a session

Reflexology has been used in traditional Chinese medicine, where it’s thought that this type of therapy can keep your body’s qi (pronounced “chi”), or vital energy, balanced.

Other theories focus on how your body’s nervous system is all connected. Applying pressure, or even touching, areas of your feet is believed to calm your central nervous system and promote relaxation.

The parasympathetic system is that relaxation response, where your body can continue a place of homeostasis, which promotes self-healing and balance,” explains Bodner. “It can do its optimal duty to take care of and make sure you’re the healthiest you can be.