Reflexology was originally known as reflex therapy. Reflexology is a holistic method of treating the entire body, which involves pressure on reflex points found on the feet, hand, and ears. Reflexologists regard the feet as a mirror image of the entire body, with the left foot representing the left-hand side of the body, and the right foot the right hand side. Reflexology teaches that a vital energy, or life force flows between the organs of the body via zones (meridians), permeating every living cell and tissue. If at any time this energy becomes blocked, the part of the body related to the blockage will become affected.
Energy blocks in the human body are located on the feet, hands and ears in one or more of the zones located there. When using specific pressure techniques, they can be detected through the experience of pain, or the through the presence of ‘gritty areas’, referred to as crystal deposits. These occur in part of the feet, hand or ear that relates to the part of the body that is in imbalance. The techniques taught in reflexology are designed to dissipate energy blocks, and break down crystalline structure. Through stimulation of the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and by encouraging the release of toxins, reflexology promotes the body to heal itself. Reflexology is extremely effective in cases of stress, tension and tiredness. It can be used as a preventative against ill health.
Where is Reflexology Done?
Reflexes for all body parts- physical and emotional- can be found at specific points on the feet, with the result that a map of the body can be drawn on the feet. The body is split into ten vertical zones: five on each side of a line drawn straight down the center of the body, so that any reflex stimulated in a particular zone will have an effect on the parts in that zone. The zones flow from the toes to the brain and down to the fingers, so that the zones connect the limbs on each side. The hands and ears also contain a reflex map of the body in the same way; because the reflexes points are smaller in these areas the feet are preferred.
Who would be suitable for Reflexology?
Reflexology has been used to treat a host of common aliments found in people, including back pain, digestive problems, migraine, period problems, sinus problems and stress. It has also reportedly helped patients with more serious conditions, such as heart disorders, multiple sclerosis and strokes. Reflexologists believe that they can sometimes detect an impending or potential illness, then given a preventive treatment, if appropriate, or advise the patient to see a specialist. By having treatments every so often, good health can be maintained and early warning signs spotted.
What are the Benefits of Reflexology?
Reflexology is best suited for reducing the accumulation of stress in the body. This is an important benefit because stress has been found to cause or complicate a large percentage of all health problems. Reflexology does more than reduce stress in common areas accumulation, such as the neck, shoulders, and lower back. It also reduces stress inside the body, such as in the lungs, heart, and kidneys. Reflexology seems to be most effective in relieving muscular and skeletal pain in the jaw, shoulders, neck, back, and hips. It’s also commonly used to help relieve conditions that are stress- related and involve the heart, lungs, digestive tract, and other organs.
How does Reflexology Work?
Reflexology has principles that serve to unify it as an integrated system. These principles make a profound statement about the human body and its functions. Reflexology uses reflex points found on the feet, hands and ears that correspond to other parts of the body. With specific techniques reflexology causes relaxation in the human body. Relaxation is the first step to normalization; the body returns to a state of homeostasis, where circulation can flow unimpeded and supplies nutrients and oxygen to the cells of the body. With the restoration of homeostasis, the body’s organs return to normal state or function as well.
One’s state of health depends upon this ability to rebound to homeostasis after a trauma or challenge; the purpose of reflexology is to trigger this process. Since stress and disease are ongoing facts of life for most of us, reflexology in addition can be used as a preventive program. It enables each individual, on a daily basis, to help his or her body restores and maintains its natural state of homeostasis.