Chinese foot reflexology is the science or method of stimulating the reflexes of specific sections of the foot that correspond to each gland, organ and part of the body. Stimulation of these reflexes serve to relax and normalize all functions of the body, in order to promote a natural balance and an overall sense of well-being and revitalization. In ancient times, walking barefoot over rocks and hard ground naturally stimulated these reflexes every day.
There are many theories about how Chinese foot reflexology works, but the most commonly held belief is that Chinese foot reflexology acts to relax reflexes that are connected to various parts of the body, improving lymphatic drainage and circulation as well as relaxing the muscles and stimulating nerve connections.
Chinese foot reflexology is primarily a relaxation technique, and while research clearly indicates that reflexology benefits patients health in both chronic and other ailments, it is not a substitute for medical treatment, and should be considered as complementary to any type of medical treatment.
It is said that reflexology is able to cure these ailments:
- Cold-like symptoms such as a running nose (due to the clearing of the congestion of the sinus)
- Cough (mucus is cleared from the lungs and respiratory passages)
- Too-frequent urination, bowel movements and flatulence
- Headaches, excessive sweating and skin rash
- Yawning and tiredness
- Stress and anxiety
Is Chinese Foot Reflexology Similar as Chinese Body Massage, Acupuncture, Acupressure or Shiatsu?
Reflexology is very much the same as massage - both involves tissue and muscle therapy to promote relaxation. Though reflexology is similar to acupuncture, acupressure and Shiatsu as well (they all use the reflexes, or meridians of the body according to its connection to the glands, organs and parts of the body), reflexology focuses on relaxation through manipulation to reduce stress and tension. The other therapies are based on the belief that Qi, or energy, flows through the meridians and that the therapies reduces or eliminates blockages by manipulating and improving the Qi. 
During treatment with a practitioner, a patient are only required to relax and give up their feet. The treatment of reflexology may include very comfortable seating arrangements, gentle and music and soft lighting to heighten the sense of relaxation. Indeed, a lot of patients fall asleep during the treatment and consider the nap as the most relaxing hours of the day.