Digestion and Foot reflexology | reflexotherapie.lu

Supporting the Digestive System with Foot Reflexology

Through digestion, we transform ingested food into substances that the body can absorb to produce energy, blood, and bodily fluids. Each organ has a specific function in converting food into chyme. "Chyme is the sticky paste that food turns into as it passes through the intestine, after being mixed in the mouth with saliva and gastric juices." [1]

Good digestion is the foundation of good health. Poor digestion can lead to various disorders that seem unrelated to the digestive organs, such as arthritis and rheumatism, allergies, skin problems, circulatory issues, and more.

[1] Gwenn Libouban « l’homme est un arbre qui marche»

Ingest – Transform – Eliminate Waste

Most of the digestive and urinary systems are located in the abdominal cavity. The diaphragm separates the thoracic cavity from the abdominal cavity. The abdomen is the intermediate part of the trunk, situated between the thorax and the pelvis.

The digestive tract is an irregularly shaped conduit extending from the mouth to the anus. It is responsible for processing and absorbing food, as well as eliminating waste.

Spanning about 10 meters, it passes through the cervical, thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic regions. It consists of several segments, each with distinct structures and functions: the mouth, pharynx, esophagus, stomach, small intestine, and large intestine, which includes the colon, rectum, and anus. The teeth, tongue, digestive glands, liver, and pancreas also play essential roles in digestion.

The Digestive Process

Digestion is the complete process from ingestion to waste elimination, which can take between 24 and 72 hours in an adult. It begins in the mouth and continues through the pharynx, which serves both respiratory and digestive functions, guiding food and air.

The esophagus acts as a passageway between the pharynx and stomach, ensuring food reaches the stomach by passing through the cervical, thoracic, and abdominal regions, crossing the diaphragm in the process.

The stomach is where food is temporarily stored and prepared for absorption. It remains static during gastric filling but becomes dynamic when churning and emptying food. It plays a key role in digestion, breaking down food with gastric juices before sending the “impure” residue to the small intestine. Digestion efficiency depends on the type and quantity of food consumed, as well as the environment in which meals are taken. Stomach discomfort can manifest as acid reflux, cramps, heartburn, and ulcers.

The Role of the Spleen

The spleen acts as a blood reservoir, produces lymphocytes, filters the blood, destroys red blood cells, and synthesizes hemoglobin. It is delicate and can rupture easily in cases of trauma. Its size increases during digestion and in response to certain blood disorders.

In traditional Chinese medicine, the spleen has a special role in transformation and transportation. It extracts the essence of food, converting it into blood and energy, which it distributes throughout the body. For this process to function optimally, the spleen’s Qi must rise, sending pure nutrients to the lungs and heart. Together with the stomach, the spleen forms the Earth element, associated with stable and logical thinking. However, excessive worry and overthinking can weaken it, causing stagnation of energy and leading to fatigue, lethargy, and melancholy.

Common expressions reflect the spleen’s influence: "getting worked up" (se mettre la rate au court-bouillon) or "running breathlessly" (courir comme un dératé), highlighting imbalances that can affect this organ. Interestingly, the English word “spleen” is linked to melancholic states, emphasizing its role in emotional balance.

The Small and Large Intestines

The small intestine consists of the duodenum, jejunum, and ileum. It is where the final breakdown of food occurs. It distinguishes between what is beneficial for the body and what must be passed on to the large intestine for elimination. Symbolically, it represents judgment and discernment.

The large intestine (colon) ensures the final stages of digestion by concentrating and transporting waste. It prevents the body from becoming overloaded with toxins and plays a crucial role in elimination. Metaphorically, it represents letting go, as retention issues can indicate a fear of scarcity or an inability to release emotional burdens.

As one of the body's main detoxification pathways, along with the kidneys, a well-functioning colon helps maintain balance. Regular reflexology sessions can help relieve acute or chronic discomfort in the intestines, supporting overall digestive well-being.

[1] Kamina "Anatomie clinique », Malone

[2] Isabelle Laading, « les cinq saisons de l’énergie », Editions Désiris

[3] Gwenn Libouban, « l’homme est un arbre qui marche », Marabout

Role of the Liver and Pancreas – Auxiliary Glands of the Digestive System

Located just beneath the diaphragm, the liver is the body’s largest gland and an essential organ in the digestive system. It plays a crucial role in multiple biological processes, particularly digestion, through the production of bile.

Bile’s function: It helps eliminate metabolic waste, including the breakdown of hemoglobin when red blood cells reach the end of their lifespan. Bile also plays a key role in removing excess cholesterol from the body.

A healthy liver ages well, provided nutritional factors remain balanced. It also acts as a blood filter and reservoir, much like a sponge—storing blood when necessary and releasing it as needed to regulate circulation.

In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), the liver governs energy circulation (Qi) and is associated with courage, initiative, and decision-making. It allows us to take action and assert ourselves.

The Liver: A Symbol of Renewal

One of the most remarkable characteristics of the liver is its ability to regenerate, even after significant tissue loss. This makes it a powerful symbol of rebirth and transformation.

In TCM, the liver and gallbladder correspond to the Wood element, which is particularly active in spring, the season of renewal. The liver stores blood and distributes it harmoniously throughout the body, working closely with the heart. It also plays a vital role in eliminating toxins, supporting muscle health, and maintaining tendon flexibility. When liver energy flows smoothly, movement is fluid and effortless—which is why stretching and physical activity help nourish the liver’s Qi.

However, stress, emotional overload, or poor digestion can block the liver, leading to stagnation. In TCM, the liver is the seat of anger, which can manifest in different ways: irritability, frustration, resentment, impatience, or even depression. When this energy is suppressed, it can contribute to fatigue, digestive issues, menstrual imbalances, and tension.

The Gallbladder: Decision-Making and Emotional Digestion

The gallbladder supports the liver by storing and releasing bile into the small intestine to aid digestion, particularly of fatty foods.

Beyond its physiological role, the gallbladder is also associated with mental strength and courage. It helps us "digest" difficult life experiences and make clear decisions. When out of balance, issues such as migraines, digestive discomfort, muscle tension, and emotional blockages may arise.

Spring: The Season for Liver and Gallbladder Renewal

Spring, the season of detoxification and renewal, is the ideal time to support the liver and gallbladder. The phrase “spring cleaning” applies not just to our homes but also to our bodies—clearing out stagnation and welcoming fresh energy.

The Pancreas: A Dual-Function Organ

The pancreas, another key digestive gland, has both exocrine and endocrine functions:

Exocrine role: It secretes digestive enzymes to break down food.
Endocrine role: It produces insulin and glucagon, which regulate blood sugar levels. When overwhelmed by excess sugar, the pancreas struggles to function properly, leading to imbalances.

In TCM, the pancreas is closely linked to the spleen, representing nourishment, comfort, and emotional well-being. Deep emotional wounds, family conflicts, and heartbreak can all affect the pancreas, showing how intimately digestion and emotions are connected.

By combining nutrition, movement, emotional awareness, and reflexology, we can support these vital organs and restore harmony within the body.

1. Movement and Physical Activity

Walking: A simple yet powerful way to reconnect with your body, release tension, and enhance circulation.
Stretching: Just as we naturally stretch after waking up, regular stretching promotes energy flow and relieves stiffness.
Breathing deeply: Conscious breathing brings fresh oxygen into the body, helping detoxify and refresh the system.

2. Nourishment

A light and detoxifying diet: Favor seasonal, fresh foods that support liver function.
Intuitive eating: Just like animals instinctively choose the right food at the right time, we can learn to listen to our bodies’ needs.

3. Reflexology for Liver and Gallbladder Support

Regular foot reflexology sessions can help release tension, restore balance, and improve digestive comfort.

Discover how foot reflexology can support your digestive well-being and its many benefits in our blog : click here.

[1] Gwenn Libouban, «l’homme est un arbre qui marche », Marabout

[2] Isabelle Laading, "Les cinq saisons de l’énergie", Editions Désiris

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