As human beings, we are much more than the mere sum of our parts. Every part of your body is in some way connected to another. And applying just the right amount of pressure – in just the right way – on any given point will have an effect elsewhere. This is the basis of reflexology, where ancient art form meets science to map the key trigger points or “energy zones” in your body – all through the soles of your feet. By pressing or kneading these areas, you will be affected in your organs, glands, and elsewhere. In this holistic arena, reflexology truly sets itself apart from traditional massage.

But just because one goal of reflexology is to instigate therapy throughout the body via the feet, this doesn’t mean that modern reflexologists aren’t concerned with the feet themselves. Healthy feet promote good posture and overall well-being, and reflexology makes sure your feet are well taken care of.

Reflexology stimulates specific zones in the feet that allow blood to circulate more freely. In doing so the technique mildly improves your lymphatic and nervous systems, increasing your alertness, and opening your pores to release toxins stored in the skin. The ultimate benefit of this is not just alertness, concentration, and relaxation: It helps purify your blood and skin by improving the flow of oxygen in your blood cells to rid the body of impurities.