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Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is a century old practice of stimulation to points on the feet and hands of the subject. Many who support the art of reflexology believe it will have a beneficial effect on some other parts of the body, or will improve general health. Many scientists and medical professionals consider reflexology to be a "pseudoscience" (any body of alleged knowledge, methodology, belief, or practice that claims to be scientific but does not follow the scientific method) offering no more benefits than ordinary massage.
The most common form is foot reflexology, although hand reflexology is also very common. Practitioners of reflexology believe the foot to be divided into a number of reflex zones corresponding to all parts of the body, and that by applying pressure to tight or "gritty" areas of a person's foot will stimulate the corresponding body part and cause it to begin healing itself.
Eunice Ingham developed Reflexology in it's modern form in the 1930s, based on earlier theory by Dr. William Fitzgerald known as "Zone Therapy". In 1913, Dr. Fitzgerald reported that specific parts of the body could have an anesthetic effect on another area. Developing his theory further, he divided the body into ten equal vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. His conclusions were that pressure on one part of the zone could affect everything else within that zone.
Reflexology
In reflexology, it is believed that there is a "vital energy" that is circulating between organs of the human body, that penetrates into every living cell. Whenever this energy is blocked, the zone of blockage will be affected, and the reflex zones can indicate the blockage of energy in different organs. Therefore, if someone has a problem in a particular organ, a reflexologist will press on the corresponding reflex zone or zones, and the person will experience pain. This pain is claimed to originate from the deposition of crystals in the reflex zone and, with massage, these crystalline structures can be broken down and the pain relieved. Simultaneously, the pressure applied to the reflex zones by the reflexologist is claimed to pass through the nerves to dissipate energy blocks.
According to John Campbell, World famous in Reflexologist, "Reflexology is a powerful natural health science that studies the relationship of the reflex areas in the feet, hands and the ears to the rest of the body so that these areas can be worked on with the fingers and thumbs in a manner that will lead to improved health and the maintenance of good health."
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Association of Reflexologists: Some FAQ*
What is reflexology?
Whilst the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn’t until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as ‘zone therapy’. He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.
In the 1930’s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.
Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.
How can reflexology help me?
Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.
Reflexology has been shown to be effective for:
- Back Pain
- Migraine
- Infertility
- Arthritis
- Sleep disorders
- Hormonal imbalances
- Sports injuries
- Digestive disorders
- Stress-related conditions
Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.
Who can benefit from reflexology?
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. After you have completed a course of reflexology treatment for a specific condition, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments in order to maintain health and well-being.
While many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, at the same time many doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognise reflexology as a well established, respected and effective therapy.
With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important people take more responsibility for their own health care needs. Reflexology helps us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives.
What happens when I go for treatment?
On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.
The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy is unique to each person.
A professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.
A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body’s needs.
How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is a part of the healing process.
This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.
*Copyright Association of Reflexologists.
Useful associated information:
Reflexology Reactions |
Reflexology Effects |
Reflexology Practice |
Scientific View |