“Reflexology is a holistic energy-based modality, working through the energies of the nervous, electrical, chemical and magnetic systems of the body"
- The American Reflexology Certification Board, 2001
The approach known as Reflexology is an ancient form of healing that is still widely practiced across the globe. The first signs of humans practicing Reflexology dates back all the way from 2323 to 2150 BCE during the Egyptian Sixth Dynasty in which pictographs were found of people working diligently on the hands and feet. Soon foot therapy was practiced throughout the Roman Empire and within traditional Chinese Medicine, as the feet hold special symbolism within these cultures. Eventually the Chinese incorporated the concept of meridians and pathways through the body transforming the pressure point theory into another healing form, Acupuncture.
As of 1913, William H. Fitzgerald, an ear, nose and throat specialist began proclaiming the anesthetic effect in areas of the body when applying pressure to various zones of the hands and feet. This practice was known as "Zone Therapy". It wasn't until the 1930's and 1940's when Psychotherapist Eunice Ingham also claimed that the sensitive hands and feet were indeed mapping the reflexes of the entire body, updating the name to Reflexology.
Reflexologists believe that the body is split into 10 vertical zones, five on the right and five on the left, followed by 3 transverse lines falling across the shoulder girdle, the waist and the pelvis. The practitioner is looking for blockages linking various zones, in an attempt to explain the various symptoms. Through manipulating pressure points associated with "clogged" areas the patient can begin to heal. When the appropriate zones are activated, the energy or Qi begins to move freely, burning or breaking up the patient’s energy blockages. Since all zones pass through the hands and feet, reflexology can effect all areas of the body and various bodily systems (i.e., endocrine, nervous, digestive, etc.)
Benefits of Reflexology:
- Relaxation
- Rids the body of toxins
- Increases circulation of blood and lymph fluids
- Improves nerve function
- Assists in better balance
- Revitalizes organs by increasing energy flow throughout the body
- It's simple, non-invasive, and an efficient way of healing the body
Interestingly there are large similarities between Massage, Acupuncture and Reflexology and when partnered together, one can expect greater healing. Reflexology focuses on manipulating reflex areas in the feet and hands, which correspond to specific body parts and organs. Stimulating certain pressure points will then correspond with various areas of the body by directly affecting the nervous system. Acupuncture, similar to reflexology, uses pressure points throughout the body, while using thin needles to access deeper areas. Massage on the other hand, increases blood flow by working throughout the entire body reducing stress, muscle tension, and pain.
A Reflexologist can spot various malfunctions based on symptoms of the feet and hands and ultimately begin healing various systems of the body.
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