reflexology
Americannoun
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a system of massaging specific areas of the foot or sometimes the hand in order to promote healing, relieve stress, etc., in other parts of the body.
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Medicine/Medical. the study of reflex movements and processes.
noun
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a form of therapy practised as a treatment in alternative medicine in which the soles of the feet are massaged: designed to stimulate the blood supply and nerves and thus relieve tension
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psychol the belief that behaviour can be understood in terms of combinations of reflexes
Other Word Forms
Etymology
Origin of reflexology
Explanation
Reflexology refers to both the study of how automatic responses affect living organisms, and a type of specialized massage therapy that uses finger pressure on certain spots on your hands, feet, and head. In the field of psychology, reflexologists study how involuntary responses impact behavior. When referring to the alternative massage therapy, reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on your feet, hands, and head to reduce stress, alleviate pain, and improve overall health. This practice, rooted in ancient healing traditions, is now popular for promoting relaxation and well-being; however, it is considered a pseudoscience because there is limited scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The daily sessions are complemented with yoga, meditation, reflexology, massage and acupuncture, Sirota said.
From Seattle Times ● Dec. 1, 2023
OK, sure, there are those $5,125 Chanel skates, but do they also give you a reflexology treatment while you're wearing them?
From Salon ● Nov. 4, 2023
With services such as deep tissue and Swedish massages, hot stones, reflexology and prenatal therapy, the prices range from $80 to $160.
From Washington Times ● Feb. 28, 2021
The reflexology lounge hosts “Happy Feet Happy Hour,” when members receive individual treatments while resting in Eames lounge chairs and enjoying a glass of biodynamic, organic, sulfite-free wine.
From Washington Post ● Feb. 5, 2020
She received an acupressure massage and reflexology treatments during the day, plus a lot of tender loving care.
From How and When to Be Your Own Doctor by Solomon, Steve
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
