Let’s clear things up right from the start—Reflexology is not a form of massage. Despite Reflexology gaining more recognition, confusion still exists about the distinctions between Reflexology and Massage. While neither therapy claims to be a cure, both employ hands-on techniques to improve the well-being of the client. These two therapies, however, differ significantly, each possessing its own strengths and delivering positive outcomes in unique ways.

Before deciding on a therapy, it's crucial to have a solid understanding of both approaches. Let's explore the key differences between Reflexology and Massage:

Reflexology

• Applies pressure to reflex zones on your feet, hands, ears, or face.
• The therapist utilises small movements of the hands, thumbs, and fingers.
• While the pressure is focused on a specific area, it affects the entire body.
• Aims to enhance self-healing mechanisms by stimulating the nervous system through reflex points.
• Improves the function of systems, glands, and organs through reflexive stimulation.
• Reported benefits include relaxation, improved lymphatic drainage, and blood circulation.
• The therapist possesses specialised knowledge of reflex points, related anatomy, and zoning.
• Only requires the removal of outer clothing (shoes, socks, gloves).

Massage

• Applied to the entire body.
• Utilises large muscle movements of the hands, feet, arms, and elbows.
• Promotes a local response in muscles and connective tissue through direct stimulation.
• Focuses on recovery by manipulating muscle and connective tissues.
• The therapist has a detailed understanding of anatomy.
• Most clothing must be removed for the treatment and you will be on a heated bed, mostly covered.

So, which therapy should you choose? 

This will depend on your condition and desired outcome. Reflexology offers specific reflex zone work for relaxation and self-healing, while Massage provides relaxation by working on soft tissues. Both options are good options and can even be combined for a holistic approach to recovery and healing. At Rooted Family Wellness Centre, in Kanata, Ottawa, we offer both Reflexology and Massage Therapy.

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*Note: Our Reflexology Therapist, Paulette Hébert, is also certified in the Cranial-Facial Kansha Technique—a unique approach combining massage therapy manoeuvres, reflexology, auriculotherapy, and lymphatic drainage. This technique covers the head, face, ears, neck, shoulders, arms, and hands. A 60-minute cranial-facial treatment is believed to be equivalent to three days of rest!

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