Revitalise From Within
What is Reflexology?
Many civilisations and cultures have used this ancient form of holistic therapy as far back as 2500BC. Evidence, by way of drawings found in the tomb of Ankhamor in ancient Egypt, shows pressure being applied to the feet of a man whilst another person applying same to the hands. Such methods were also widely used in China, India and Japan.
Feet mirror the body. The right foot mirrors the right side of the body and the left – the left side of the body. Therefore, when both feet are treated, the whole body benefits.
The principles of Reflexology suggest that areas of the feet and hands correspond to the different parts of the bodily organs and glands. Consequently, Pressure applied to these reflex points on the feet or hands sends messages to the affected areas to unblock the energy flow and thus increase circulation, release tension, improve bodily functions and, therefore, allow the body to heal itself.
Some of the effects and benefits of reflexology are:
- Relaxation.
- Reduce stress and tension.
- Improve blood supply to the affected area and, indeed, to the whole body.
- Reduce inflammation.
- Release toxins.
- Reduce congestion and help sleep patterns.
- Regain natural equilibrium.
- Help the body heal itself of ailments, dis-ease and physical imbalance.
Historical background
Modern day reflexology is based on Foot Zone Therapy which was pioneered or as some say ‘rediscovered’ by Dr William Fitzgerald (1872-1942). Dr Joe Shelby Riley developed Dr Fitzgerald’s concept of Zone Therapy and it was through him (Riley) that Eunice Ingham , a physiotherapist, who came up with the term ‘reflexology’. She discovered that any dis-ease or congestion in any part of the foot is mirrored in their corresponding part of the body. She was the first to identify that feet are the key area to apply pressure to. She also developed the ‘foot map’ that we use to the present day on body’s reflex points on the feet.
Foot Zone Therapy
Foot Zone Therapy is based on observing and interpreting through touch and vision the different aspects of the foot and its colour, soreness and painful spots. Treatment starts by applying pressure with the fingers or thumb to those related areas on the feet. A complex signal system in the feet connects to every organ of the body. Foot Zone Therapy triggers and stimulates every organ and renews its cell system in each zone. This is a holistic approach which believes that the body’s cells make up a huge web of interactive zones. This promotes the body’s natural healing capability by releasing tension and normalising blood flow, the endocrine (hormones) system, lymph circulation, digestion and helping the nervous system function normally.
Who can have Reflexology?
All ages can have reflexology and there is no limit as to the number of treatments that one can have.
Irrespective of the state of the body, it is highly unlikely that Reflexology will do any harm. Care should be taken though on contra indications before treatment. Talk to your therapist beforehand if you have any ongoing health issues.
During a reflexology treatment you do not need to undress. The only items of clothing that need to come off are your socks. Depending on the time of year, you will be covered with a light blanket to keep the body warm while treatment is being carried out. The following mediums can be used for a reflexology treatment: oil, cream or lotion. You may fall asleep or drift in and out of sleep. This is very normal and is the result of the relaxation delivered by the treatment.
How long until I see results?
Like with any dis-ease or imbalance of energy, it takes time for the body to correct itself and start the self-healing process. A one-off treatment will still benefit you for a general equilibrium and a sense of relaxation, but regular treatments will keep the harmony of your inner systems and prevent them falling out of balance.
