Reflexology

Reflexology works on the principle that there are 'reflexes' or 'responsive zones' in the feet and hands corresponding to each and every part and organ of the body. Working on these reflexes systematically with pressure and manipulation has three main effects - it brings about normal functioning of all the organs and glands in the body, improves nerve function and blood supply, and finally and very importantly, induce~ a state of relaxation. The reflexes are arranged in such a way as to form a map of the body on the hands and feet, the right foot relating to the left side, and vice versa.

When giving treatment, professional reflexologists use their fingers, thumbs and hands to bring about the desired results. The principal effect of this treatment is to bring about a sense of calm and relaxation, which in turn relieves all kinds of problems related to stress factors. Reflexology also aids lymphatic and venous circulation and has been found beneficial for a wide range of disorders, from back pain to migraines, sinusitis, and digestive problems. It is also extremely effective for the alleviation of pain.

The History of Reflexology

The ancient healing art of reflexology has been known to man for many thousands of years. The early Indian, Chinese and Egyptian peoples first practised it. Throughout history, cultures have created therapeutic practices of footwork. From ancient Egypt, China, India, and Japan, footwork is depicted in relics, including a pictograph from the tomb of a physician in Egypt dating from 2350 B.C.

Cleopatra is noted in historical works to have worked on Mark Anthony's feet (Circa 60 B.C.). Reflexology may even have emerged before acupuncture, which is said to have originated about 5,000 years ago.

In 1913 Dr. William Fitzgerald, an American E.N.T. surgeon, introduced this therapy to the West. He noted that pressure on specific parts of the body could have an anaesthetizing effect on a related area. Developing this theory, he divided the body into ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded that pressure on one part of a zone could affect everything else within that zone. Thus, reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone. A colleague of Pavlov, V. M. Bechterev coined the term 'Reflexology' in 1917.

In the 1930's, Eunice Ingham, a therapist, further developed and refined the zone therapy, into what is now known as foot reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. Thus, when you treat the big toes there is a related effect in the head and treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on the whole body.

How Can Reflexology Help You?

The body has the ability to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in a state of "imbalance", and vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore and maintain the encourage healing. A reflexologist uses hands only to apply gentle pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy are unique.

Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points the reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.