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 pressure on specific parts of the body could
have an anaesthetising effect on a related area. Developing this theory, he
divided the body into ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and
toes.
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,
a therapist, further developed and refined the zone therapy into what is now
known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of
the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body.
Thus, when you treat the big toes there is a related effect in the head, and
treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on the whole
body. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help
heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.
Reflexology in practice as depicted on the Egyptian tomb of Ankmahor
in 2350 BC.
WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY?
Reflexology is a Complementary Therapy that works on the feet or hands enabling
the body to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, it is in
a state of "imbalance", and vital energy pathways are blocked,
preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to
restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing. A
Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For each person
the application and the effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained
hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet, and by working on
these points the Reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow
of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination
is improved.
This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself, often
counteracting a lifetime of misuse.
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 , Neck 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
Refelexology 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.
