Reflexology

Reflexology is a time-honoured treatment that dates back about 5,000 years. It emerged in a variety of cultures including Indian, Chinese, Japanese and Native American. Illustrations of Reflexology have even been found in what is known as “The Physicians Tomb” in Egypt (circa 2330 BC).

In the early 1930’s Dr William Fitzgerald, an American Ear Nose & Throat specialist, introduced the western world to Zone Therapy – a simplified meridian acupuncture therapy. Using this technique enabled the therapist to stimulate organs or body parts using pressure on specific areas or zones of the foot or hand. This information and technology enabled Dr Fitzgerald to perform minor surgery by applying pressure to various points of the feet or hands producing an analgesic effect in certain points of the body. It was also found that Zone Therapy was able to balance the body’s polarities – the 'poles' of the feet and head having a similar relationship to the north and south poles of the earth.

Zone therapy was enhanced in 1938 by the thorough research of Eunice Ingham, a colleague of Dr Fitzgerald. Eunice Ingham’s research has founded what is now the most used Reflexology Foot Chart around the world. Her work showed that by applying pressure to the feet in precise areas, a reflex response would occur throughout the body, travelling along nerves to the spine and out to the body (like a knee jerk response) thus aiding normalisation of gland and organ function.

Reflexology and its Benefits

Reflexology is a treatment which provides the avenue for your body to heal itself via the stimulation of pressure points found within the hands, face, feet and ears. This stimulation promotes the body’s circulation and can aid any impediments within the joints, organs, and nerve endings by assisting the body to rid itself of toxins and improving the body's energy.

Reflexology is also a relaxation technique. By removing the tension held within the feet it assists in the relaxation of the entire body. Stimulation of the nerves in the feet causes a deeply relaxing effect due to the release of endorphins which enables the various body systems and organs to function more efficiently.  The result is a sense of ease in both mood and mind.

Because feet are the foundation of the body, the entire skeletal alignment can also be improved when the ligaments and muscles within the feet are loosened and released. A vast network of nerves reside in each foot, along with 19 muscles, 107 ligaments, 28 bones, and 19 joints.

Reflexology also encompasses the healing art of touch. When we are upset or not well, a friendly gesture, a hug, or a simple touch of the arm can do much to allay these feelings. Reflexology provides touch by applying hand and finger pressure to the soles, sides and tops of the feet, as well as the face, ears and hands, releasing tension and emotion.

In summary, Reflexology is a holistic treatment that reduces stress, induces deep relaxation, improves circulation, revitalises energy, facilitates the removal of toxins, promotes health, and thereby stimulates creativity, motivation and emotional wellbeing. Reflexology is a beneficial treatment for a variety of ailments whether acute, chronic, major or minor, and complements orthodox medicine.

A regular Reflexology treatment can help your body maintain a healthy state. So take the first step and follow your feet to better health!