Reflexology
- Summary
- More Detail
- Typical Conditions
- Questions
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Introduction
The idea of reflexology is that the entire body is represented on a mini map on the hands, ears and feet. Using this model it is said to treat the entire person and should be regarded as a preventative or general health treatment, rather than a system of diagnosis. Based on traditional Chinese Medicine reflexology has developed into a therapy in it's own right.
Reflexology is a gentle and relaxing therapy using compression and massage techniques on the feet. By working on certain reflex points, blockages can be released, restoring the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, toxins eliminated and circulation improved, inducing relaxation and balance to the body's own self healing systems.
Anita Clarke
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a natural, holistic therapy that uses touch to activate the body’s own healing powers. The therapy is based on the discovery that points on the feet or hands correspond to organs, systems and structures in the rest of the body. There are over 7,200 nerve endings on each foot. These nerve endings connect to nerve pathways that lead to each and every organ, gland, and part of the body. This corresponding relationship is known as a “reflex”. By stimulating reflex points on the feet we can, therefore, produce a beneficial response and correct imbalances in other parts of the body.
This natural therapy uses only human therapeutic touch and interaction to bring about well-being. It seeks to work with the body’s natural healing efforts. Many scientific experiments have demonstrated just how beneficial human touch can be (1).
A Short History
Reflexology has a long history that is depicted in texts and illustrations from the early Chinese, Japanese, Indians, Russians and Egyptians. Reflexology today has grown from the work carried out by Dr William Fitzgerald, an ear nose and throat specialist, who developed the ‘zone theory’. He discovered that by applying pressure to a part of the body in a particular zone he could operate on a corresponding part of the body without anaesthetic. Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist, who used the zone theory in her work with patients, further developed his findings.
The Zone Theory
Reflexologists specify that there are ten zones that run the length of the body from head to toe, five on each side of the body ending in each foot and running down the arms to the tips of the fingers. All the organs and parts of the body lie along one or more of these zones.
These zones can be considered as a channel for life’s energy (Chi or Qi in oriental medicine) and by applying pressure say to the kidney reflex, this will release vital energy that may be blocked elsewhere in that zone, i.e. the eyes. Exactly how this physical mechanism works is not fully understood, but there is little doubt that reflexology does work.
What does a treatment involve?
The therapist will start a full consultation to determine your reasons for seeking treatment, medical history, lifestyle, diet and emotional state. You will then be made comfortable on the treatment couch, without shoes and socks. A relaxing massage introduces the treatment before the reflexes on the feet are massaged and worked.
By working reflex points, blockages can be released and a free flow of energy restored to the whole body. Tensions are eased, toxins eliminated and circulation improved, inducing relaxation and balance to the body's own healing mechanism. The whole treatment should be a totally relaxing experience that lasts approximately 60 minutes.
Most people experience no adverse affects after a treatment other than feeling “chilled” and possibly a little sleepy. It is strongly advised that you take it easy and drink plenty of water to help eliminate the toxins released during the treatment. Alcohol is best avoided.
A course of six treatments is usually recommended for most conditions and then a maintenance programme of treatment will be recommended as appropriate.
(1) Montague Ashley, Touching: The human significance of the skin, Harper Collins, London 1986
(2) Pitman Vicki, Reflexology A practical approach, Nelson Thornes, 1997
What are the Benefits of Reflexology?
It could be said that reflexology benefits health from the ground upwards, helping to normalize body functions. A session relieves the 'stress' that can reduce your capacity for optimum health. It is a safe effective way to better health and is also a preventative health care system.
Reflexology can help:
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Reduce stress, tension, anxiety and depression
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Cleanse the body of toxins
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Relieve headaches and eye strain
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Relieve sinus conditions, asthma and respiratory complaints
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Balance hormones, PMS and other menstrual problems
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Aid digestive complaints, IBS, constipation etc
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Relieve joint and muscle pain, including arthritic pain
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Alleviate urinary conditionsReflexology Chart - soles of feet.
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Normalise blood pressure
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Balance all the body’s systems
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Improve emotional imbalances
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Boost low energy levels
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Heal the body faster after surgery
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Improve sleep patterns
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Aid mental alertness