What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is both old and new, it is a unique method for activating the healing power of our own body. We can, using reflexology, access a system of energy zones that run throughout the body through reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all major organs, glands and body parts.
A Brief History of Reflexology
Reflexology is not a new method of treatment. It goes back at least 5000 years, when a similar form of therapy was practiced in Egypt, India and China.
The story of modern reflexology began at the beginning of the 20th century when Dr William Fitzgerald developed the modern zone theory of the human body, arguing that parts of the body correspond to other parts. She offered as proof the fact that applying pressure to one area anesthetized a corresponding area.
In the 1930's Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist for Dr. Joseph Riley, used zone therapy in her work with patients. Eventually, she mapped the entire body onto the feet and discovered that alternating pressure on various points had therapeutic effects far beyond the limited use to which zone therapy had been previously employed, namely, reduction of pain, and so reflexology was born.
What's Involved in Reflexology?
The theory underlying reflexology is that pressure on reflex points stimulates the energy flow along a pathway (meridian zone) clearing congestion and balancing the whole body. Working on all reflex points in the feet will return the body to homeostasis (a stable equilibrium throughout the body). Once in this state the body's immune system will be able to overcome whatever is troubling it.
The practitioner will gently exert pressure on the reflex points in a systematic way. This stimulates and sends nerve impulses along the energy pathways to the various parts of the body to which they are connected. The impulses clear or reduce the congestion in the energy channels, which helps revitalise the energy flow and promotes homeostasis.
Reflexology stimulates creativity and productivity
By reducing tensions and calming the mind we are free to think our best thoughts, come up with our best ideas, and work longer and with greater clarity at difficult tasks.
Who is reflexology suitable for?
From young children to pensioners reflexology can add a whole new dimension to a person's life. People with disabilities and learning difficulties have also been known to benefit greatly from its therapeutic effects.
What can Reflexology help with?
It has been estimated that over seventy five per cent of all illness is stress related. Stress, is the result of tension, tension is a result of our thinking, our interpretation of the events that surround our lives. Reflexology can relax your body systems and reduce your tension by generating deep, tranquil, relaxation.
Reflexology improves circulation.
We all know how important it is for the blood to flow freely throughout the body, carrying oxygen and nutrients to all the cells that make up the tissues of the body and removing waste products of metabolism, and other toxins. Stress and tension tighten up the cardiovascular system and restrict blood flow. Circulation becomes sluggish. By reducing stress and tension, reflexology allows the miles of cardiovascular vessels to conduct the flow of blood naturally and easily.
Reflexology cleanses the body of toxins and impurities.
The body has built-in mechanisms for cleansing itself, but if these stop functioning improperly, toxins and waste matter build up. By deepening relaxation, reflexology causes all systems of the body to function more efficiently, including those that eliminate waste products.
Reflexology balances the whole system.
The technical term is homeostasis and it means being in a dynamic state of being. The thousands of parts and areas of the body, each functioning according to its own laws and purposes, together make up only one body. For the body to be healthy, everything must work together.
Reflexology revitalises energy
We each experience our own energy levels in a personal way, our bodies have a natural ebb and flow, it really does depend on some many factors, but one thing is certain: energy flows. It circulates throughout the body on a physical, emotional and mental level. Energy needs to be revitalized periodically. By relaxing and opening up energy pathways, reflexology revitalizes the body and supplies it with energy on all levels.
