In an innovative approach to understanding the benefits of reflexology, researchers from the Association of Reflexologists (AoR) and University of Oxford are launching a new study that will use hair cortisol testing to examine how the popular-complementary therapy can reduce stress. Reflexology involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears, and has long been hailed for its potential to alleviate stress and promote relaxation. However, until now, scientific studies have not delineated exactly how or why reflexology is able to reduce stress.

Now a team of researchers are aiming to change that by integrating cutting-edge hair cortisol testing to measure how reflexology may change long-term levels of the ‘stress hormone’ cortisol.

The study will involve participants undergoing regular reflexology sessions, with their hair cortisol levels being measured before and after a series of treatments. Cortisol is often referred to as the"stress hormone" because its levels rise in response to physical or emotional stress. Hair cortisol testing provides a unique advantage over traditional blood or saliva tests by allowing researchers to assess chronic stress levels over an extended period, offering a more comprehensive view of how stress is affecting the body.

Participants in the study will undergo 6 hour-long sessions of reflexology over a period of three months. As a member of the AoR I am really excited to see the results and report back.