Our feet are like a map!

It is thought that all the systems of the body are mapped out on the feet. The circulatory, lymphatic, nervous, skeletal, endocrine, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and the reproductive systems all align to signals on this blueprint of the body found on the feet.

A Foot Zone Therapist is trained to understand, find, and access these energetic points and apply pressure with the intent to bring the body into homeostasis. "Zoning" addresses physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components, addressing mind-body-spirit balance. 

In my experience, people are more familiar with Reflexology. There are some important differences between Reflexology and Foot Zone Therapy. Reflexology generally targets specific reflex points on the feet to address localized issues or specific body systems. Foot Zoning on the other hand is a holistic therapy that works the entire foot in a specific sequence to balance and reset the whole body.

*This map is a general representation and differs slightly from the specific map I use. This is intended to serve as a visual aid to illustrate the concept and practice of Foot Zoning.

This diagram depicts the energy meridians of the body that a Foot Zone Therapist follows. Meridians are natural energy pathways that run through the body and correspond to different organs and systems of the body. I often tell my clients that Foot Zoning is similar conceptually to acupuncture as the meridians are the pathways that carry the Qi ("chee") or vital energy throughout the body, sustaining health and balance.

Interestingly, many traditions have their own name for this vital or life force energy:

• Qi in Chinese traditions

• Prana in Ayurveda

• Ki in Japanese traditions

• Ka in Ancient Egyptian traditions

This common thread among various traditions transcends cultures and time, emphasizing a universal understanding of the body's energetic nature. Foot Zone Therapy aligns with these ancient wisdoms as well as pulls from modern knowledge to help restore balance, enhancing overall health and well-being. 

Foot Zoning During Pregnancy

Great question! The answer is YES! Foot Zoning is very beneficial at all times of life, including during pregnancy!

During the first trimester of pregnancy, the rule of thumb is "shorter, faster, lighter", speaking of how we work on the signals. Mom's body has a lot going on physical, mentally, spiritually, and emotionally and "getting zoned" invites balance - homeostasis - in all of these areas.

Baby also reaps the benefits of mom being more balanced (who doesn't??) and can even have some of his/her own emotions pop up. I have seen in my own practice how Foot Zoning can also be a great way to foster or strengthen a bond between mom and baby.

Foot Zoning and Doula Care

One of my favorite ways to connect with my Doula clients is through Foot Zoning. Not many Doulas offer this specific service, and so I'm honored to be able to offer this dynamic duo in the birth community!

While we zone, my clients and I chat about life, struggles, and triumphs, as well as release emotion, walk through visualizations, share stories and insights, and... basically just become friends! By the time labor rolls around, we have spent hours together prepping and getting to know each other.

Is it safe?