What is emotional release in reflexology?
Written by
Gina Mason
Reviewed by
Prof. Benjamin Murphy, Ph.D.Experiencing an emotional release during reflexology can be associated with the instantaneous release of tears, laughter, or calmer feelings from stimulating certain reflex points. This allows for the release of accumulated tension being held in the nervous system. I have observed that how my patients feel matters after such releases occur during a treatment, as this indicates that the body is now doing its job by processing previously stored stress responses.
Physiological Basis
- Pressure stimulates the vagus nerve regulating emotional responses
- Releases trapped fight-or-flight energy from tissues
- Triggers endorphin and oxytocin production calming the mind
Common Experiences
- Sudden tearfulness without apparent cause during sessions
- Wave-like calmness spreading through the body
- Involuntary sighs or laughter releasing pent-up energy
Aftercare Practices
- Hydrate with warm tea to support nervous system integration
- Gentle journaling to process emerging feelings
- Quiet reflection time before resuming daily activities
Neurological rebalancing is the reason for these releases: pressure signals travel faster than the tissue-stored emotional memory. Thus, there can be a sense of temporary disorientation, as these old patterns of stress are processed by the body. I reassure clients that this integration is a good sign as healing is taking place in an effective manner. The sessions aid in rewriting habitual reaction to stress.
Healthy processing involves allowing open expression without judgment during sessions. Stored tears or laughter prolong the integration process. I create safe spaces for clients to express their feelings, allowing them to manifest in whatever way is most suitable. Hydration after sessions and light movement helps ground the process of integrating released emotion.
Professional help is required to handle sudden or recurring releases, as a trained eye can distinguish the difference between normal release and the trauma response, which requires special care. Suggested courses of action will be modified for individuals who are sensitive to certain stimuli. Please seek help if the release being experienced gives trauma symptoms greater than 24 hours in duration.
Read the full article: 10 Essential Hand Reflexology Points
