Definition of reflexology

Reflexology is a scientific art based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet, hands and ears, which correspond to all body parts. The physical act of applying specific pressures using thumb, finger and hand techniques result in stress reduction that causes a physiological change in the body.

Massage works from the outside in…

reflexology works from the inside out.

The American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB) defines reflexology as “a non-invasive, complementary modality involving thumb and finger techniques to apply alternating pressure to reflexes shown on reflex maps of the body located on the feet, hands, and outer ears.”

Some benefits

Benefits reported through studies and/or client testimonials:

• Stress reduction
• Deep relaxation
• Increased circulation
• Pain reduction or Elimination
• Accelerated self-healing
• Restored healthy internal balance
• Revitalized energy
• Increased sense of well-being
• Stimulates creativity and productivity
• Reduces or prevents foot pain
• Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities
• Lowers high blood pressure
• Helps resolve fertility issues

Reflexology is a non-invasive natural therapy that relaxes the body. On rare occasions, release of toxins as a result of the body’s natural healing process may result in symptoms such as perspiration, nausea, diarrhea, or headaches, however these symptoms are temporary and not serious. If a person is highly toxic (drug or alcohol use or chemo treatment) the reflexologist should be informed treatment can then be varied so the client does not have discomfort from massive detoxification.

“Thank you for sharing your knowledge on “feet.” Your innate love and care for people shines through you.” ~K. Quall

How does it work?

There are many theories about how Reflexology works, but the most commonly held belief is that Reflexology acts to relax reflexes that are connected to various parts of the body, improving lymphatic drainage and circulation as well as relaxing muscles and stimulating nerve connections. It has been documented that stress causes up to 90% of all illness. By relaxing the client, Reflexology prevents and heals damage from stress.

Reflexology works with Zones and it is believed that by “clearing” the zones in the foot, hands and/or ears, you allow energy to flow in the body and healing occurs.

Nerve endings can become calcified and therefore dysfunctional. Through reflexology you can “break up”  this calcification and re-establish communication in the body. (break up=stimulate circulation which allows body to bring in construction workers and take away waste.)

Reflexology also works through the communication of the nervous system. There are over 7200 nerve endings in each foot. Stimulating these nerves has a huge impact on the entire body. By applying calm, healing touch to the feet, hands and ears the entire body can relax and be soothed.

History

The practice of Reflexology may have a long history stemming from the distant past. For instance, in Egypt, in the physician’s tomb (2300 BC) there is a pictograph, which may be evidence of Reflexology being applied. In Asia, several examples also have been discovered including a statue of the Buddha’s foot depicting a map of corresponding areas of the body.

Modern Reflexology is based on the work of two American physicians, Dr. William Fitzgerald and Dr. Joe Shelby Riley in the 1920′s. Together they experimented with dividing the foot into vertical and horizontal planes and linking sections to body areas. Eunice D. Ingham, a physiotherapist, worked closely with Dr.’s Fitzgerald and Riley and developed their knowledge into a usable therapy and reflexology map. Eunice Ingham was responsible for teaching groups of people her method of Reflexology in the late 1930′s through the early 70′s. She started a grassroots following of individuals helping others with Reflexology in the US, and you can still study her original method at the International Institute of Reflexology.