Liz is a medical writer and illustrator with an MSc in Medical Art and a BA in Medical Illustration focusing on pre-medical sciences. She has worked with healthcare professionals and educators globally creating anatomically accurate learning materials.
History of Reflexology
Reflexology is an ancient holistic therapy believed to have been practised in China and Egypt as early as 2330 B.C. It involves applying pressure to specific points on the hands, feet, face, and ears - areas that correspond to different organs and systems within the body. This practice is also known as zone therapy.
Both hand and foot reflexology use massage techniques to stimulate reflex points and promote physical and emotional well-being. It is widely used to support relaxation, reduce pain, and restore balance within the nervous system.
Anatomy Charts to Support Reflexology Learning
To support your understanding of reflexology, our range of hand and foot anatomical charts offer clear, detailed illustrations of reflex zones and underlying anatomy. Perfect for students, educators, and reflexology professionals, these charts make it easier to visualise how specific areas of the hands and feet connect to the rest of the body.
Whether you're studying or using them in a clinic, our posters are valuable tools to guide learning and treatment.
Benefits of Hand & Foot Reflexology
There are many shared benefits to both hand and foot reflexology. These include:
- Stress relief and deep relaxation
- Improved sleep by encouraging the release of endorphins
- Pain reduction, especially for headaches, migraines, back pain and muscle tension
- Enhanced circulation, which supports healing of tissues and detoxification
- Alleviation of symptoms associated with stress-related and chronic conditions such as arthritis, anxiety, digestive disorders, and injuries
Hand reflexology is often more accessible for self-care and quick relief, while foot reflexology is popular for its grounding and deeply relaxing effects. Both are beneficial tools in holistic health routines.
Common Hand Reflexology Zones
The hand contains reflex points that correspond to many parts of the body. Here are some key zones from fingertips to the base of the palm:
- Fingertips – Linked to the head, brain, eyes, ears, and sinuses
- Upper palm – Connected to the heart and lungs
- Centre of the palm – Associated with the liver, pancreas, spleen and kidneys
- Lower palm/wrist area – Reflects the lower back, bladder, and intestines
You can explore these zones in more detail using a hand reflexology chart, which visually maps the connections between hand pressure points and internal organs.
Explore Anatomical Models
Our anatomical models of the hands and feet provide a tactile way to study reflexology. Anatomy models ideal for anyone looking to deepen their practical understanding, whether you're a reflexologist, massage therapist, or anatomy student.
Common Foot Reflexology Zones
Just like the hands, the feet are mapped with reflex zones that relate to different parts of the body. Common zones include:
- Toes – Correspond to the head and brain, including the sinuses, eyes and ears
- Ball of the foot – Connected to the chest area, especially the heart and lungs
- Arch of the foot – Reflects digestive organs such as the liver, pancreas, kidneys and spleen
- Heel – Linked to the lower back, intestines and sciatic nerve
A foot reflexology chart is a helpful visual guide to these zones, supporting learning, teaching, or practical therapy work.
Instantly Available Digital Downloads
Visual Aids to better Understand Reflexology
Understanding anatomy can be far more effective with high quality visual tools. Our range of anatomical models and posters allow students and professionals to deepen their understanding through visual and tactile learning. Whether you're preparing for an exam, teaching a class, or working in a clinical setting, our resources provide a practical and engaging way to study human anatomy.
