Reflexology - A Guide
Reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflex points on the feet that correspond to every organ, gland and part of the body. For example, the toes represent the head and the ball of the foot represents the chest and lung region.
Reflexology is certainly not new. The art of reflexology can be traced back to 2330BC in ancient Egypt and also in China and India.It wasnt 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 1930s zone therapy was further developed into what is now known as reflexology. Reflexology as we know it today is attributed to the work of Eunice Ingham, an American Therapist. She observed that congestion and tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body. Eunice mapped out reflex points on the hands and feet that correspond to all of the organs, glands and parts of the body. Her original work is taught exclusively by the school she founded:- The International Institue of Reflexology.
Reflexology TodayReflexology is a complementary therapy widely accepted in the UK and recognised by the NHS, many GP’s and hospices. By applying pressure to the reflex points on the hands and/or feet, the blood circulation is improved, the body relaxes and organs and glands become balanced. Doctors agree that over 75% of our health problems can be linked to nervous stress and tension. Reflexology is fantastic for relaxing and clearing these blockages.
Reflexology is not a beauty therapy or a foot massage; it is a clinical treatment with proven results. It is totally safe for people of all ages, from babies to the elderly, for pregnant women and those undergoing chemotherapy.
Whilst reflexology works very well alongside conventional medicine, it should never be used in place of seeking professional medical advice.
A Typical Treatment - What to Expect A first reflexology session lasts for about 90 minutes. The first 20 minutes is spent taking a client history so that I am able learn about your reasons for seeking treatment , any presenting conditions, any relevent history and to check for check for any contra-indications . This information is always completely confidential and will help to provide the basis for a treatment plan. I may also ask questions about your lifestyle, general health and wellbeing and the environments you live and work in.
Once we are ready to begin I will ask you to remove your shoes and socks and to sit in the portable reflexology chair I bring with me. The treatment session involves me working on both feet using a series of techniques that work on the various reflex points, searching for sore spots or "congestion" at the reflex point. Where I come across congestion I will "work it out" which may be mildly uncomfortable, but this is always only brief, and generally the treatment sessions are relaxing and very enjoyable.
