Vitaflex is a massage technique that stimulates pressure points in the hands and feet to clear nerve pathways and remove blockages. It is often used with essential oils and can be incorporated into other massage styles. Certification is available through massage schools.
Vitaflex is a type of bodywork that is supposed to clear the nerve pathways, removing blockages caused by toxins and damaged tissue. It is closely related to reflexology, a technique that relies on specific pressure points in the hands and feet, and is often offered as part of another massage technique, such as raindrop massage. Certification in vitaflex is offered by several massage schools, and some massage therapists also use educational tapes and books to learn the technique.
According to Stanley Burroughs, the developer of vitaflex, the body is covered in numerous pressure points that correspond to specific parts of the body. This is clearly taken from Traditional Chinese Medicine, which is also based on those pressure points. Burroughs believed that by stimulating these pressure points with a specific massage technique, a massage therapist could create an electrical impulse that would run along the patient’s nerve to the desired point on the body.
Most therapists who offer vitaflex use essential oils in the process, focusing on vitaflex points on the feet and hands, which means clients can remain seated and fully clothed for the session, although lying down can promote relaxation. The therapist applies essential oil to the desired point or hand, then uses a gentle motion with the fingers to stimulate the nerves. The pressure is light to medium making vitaflex suitable for seniors and people with sensitive bodies.
“Vitaflex” is a portmanteau of “vitality” and “reflexes,” suggesting that this massage technique should stimulate reflexes through the massage to promote increased vitality. A vitaflex session can certainly help the client to relax and, in the hands of a trained professional, tension in various parts of the body can be released. Whether or not a noticeable electrical charge is generated is another matter. With the use of essential oils, the practitioner can also improve the emotional state of the client, since some essential oils seem to act as mood agents.
This technique is sometimes incorporated into other massage styles by massage therapists who like to create their own techniques. It’s also an important part of raindrop massage, in which a patient lies face down on a massage table while essential oils are poured onto their backs and then rubbed together using the vitaflex technique. Raindrop massage is supposed to help realign the spine, benefiting the client’s posture and hopefully alleviating some back pain.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN