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Reflexology is a safe and non-invasive therapy to promote healing for individuals at any age and in any stage of life. Reflexology is an ancient art which taps into the bodys own natural ability to heal, and encourages the body to return to a balanced state. It is based on the premise that there are reflex points in the hands, feet, ears, and other locations, which correspond via nerve pathways and/or meridians to every part, organ and gland of the body. Through intentional pressure, these reflexes are stimulated and the body is assisted to return to optimum vitality. In the process, endorphins (natural pain killers) are released; parasympathetic relaxation of the nervous system takes place, increased blood and lymphatic circulation results in increases in oxygen and immune levels, all of which enhances one's health. A balance in every body system is thus encouraged so that the body will reach a state of homeostasis. In her book, Reflexology, Chris Stormer states: "Anyone and everyone can benefit from reflexology's amazing ability to harmonize all bodily systems. It effectively enhances the functioning of the mind, body and soul." HISTORY OF REFLEXOLOGY top of page Reflexology can be traced back thousands of years. It has been practiced through the ages in all of the great cultures of the world. Egyptian, Chinese and Indian records, dating back thousands of years, show evidence of this holistic healing art. An ancient Egyptian wall painting dating back to 2330 BC, shows people receiving both hand and foot reflexology.
Dr. William Fitzgerald, who was a nose and throat specialist, pioneered "Zone Therapy" in the USA, and is considered to be the father of modern reflexology. Zone therapy refers to the concept of dividing the body into 10 zones- 5 on each side of the body- and any reflexes stimulated on these zones would stimulate any organs, glands, and body parts located along that zone. About 1913, he discovered that pressure, when applied to certain points of the body, relieved pain and led to an improvement in functions of body organs. Eunice Ingham is often referred to as the mother of reflexology. She was a physiotherapist who worked with Dr. Fitzgerald and she also practiced Zone Therapy. She systematized and popularized the therapy in the 1930's; she mapped the entire body on to the feet and discovered that a therapeutic effect resulted from applying thumb pressure along these zones. She called it 'Reflexology'. Eunice Ingham published anatomical charts and two books: Stories the Feet Can Tell (1938) and Stories the Feet Have Told (1951) which are still widely read and which have influenced many people. HOW REFLEXOLOGY WORKS top of page There exist numerous schools of thought on how reflexology works, however none of these is exact. The different body systems respond simultaneously in varying degrees to a reflexology session. Much research is being done in China, Denmark and the UK where reflexology has been integrated into the mainstream provision of healthcare. We do know that that reflexology provides improved health, profound relaxation and pleasure. Life energy (Ki Energy): Natural life energy flows through our bodies along pathways (or meridians) flowing through every organ, gland, part and tissue from head to toe. Blockages in the energy flow will disrupt the circulation of life energy. Reflexology restores balance in the body. Neurological: On the sole of each foot, there are thousands of nerve endings which are connected every gland/organ/tissue and body part. Stress and tension cause constrictions which inhibit proper functioning of the body. Using thumb and finger pressure on strategic points on the foot, the practitioner can help the client break-up the blockages and release deposits so they can be eliminated through the urinary system. With these blockages removed, the body is allowed to function more smoothly. Clients are encouraged to drink plenty of water to help flush out their system, and to have a warm bath with Epsom salts to draw out further toxins. Psychological/Spiritual: When the body relaxes and the mind clears, the client is able to see any situation from a more objective viewpoint and is better able to sort out the priorities from the less important factors. Most clients who arrive in an uptight condition are able to leave, after a reflexology session, more light-hearted and even laughing.
Lymph:
The lymphatic system does not have special pathways in which to
circulate as the blood does, but it circulates freely around each
cell removing toxins and keeping the immune system healthy.
One way to improve the circulation of lymph is to use a rebounder (
a mini trampoline), and another way is to have a reflexology
session. Hering's Law for the direction of healing:
From above downwards. Reflexology works within Hering's Law. Frequent and or several reflexology sessions may be required to clear away accumulated body stresses, and maintenance sessions will help promote overall good health and well being. BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY top of page Reflexology automatically reduces stress during a session and this allows changes to occur at the cellular level throughout the body. Reflexology: - improves lymphatic circulation resulting in detoxification - can help to alleviate pain and discomfort - brings the body back to balance (homeostasis) - improves circulation which helps the body heal faster - revitalizes energy - increases physical and mental well-being
Reflexology practitioners do not diagnose,
prescribe, use tools or treat for specific conditions and ought not
to be a substitute for medical treatment. Reflexology treats
the whole person - physically, emotionally and mentally - and works
well in combination with other therapies, including traditional
medicine, to achieve best results for the client. Most clients
feel a sense of calm and well-being following a reflexology session. |
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