The Basics of Reflexology
Our bodies are amazing machines, regularly healing, repairing and revitalizing themselves. However, with the stresses of today’s world, the constant rushing from task to task, and striving for quick and easy solutions, we sometimes forget that we have this tremendous capacity for health. Typical medical treatment focuses on suppressing symptoms of many presenting complaints, and does not take the time to look beyond for the causes. And, of course, we must be willing to look at causes and work on them, rather than settling for the quick fix.
Medications, unhealthy eating habits, and digestive systems that don’t operate properly all impact our natural cycles and the flow of energy in the body. Over time, our health deteriorates.
Reflexology is a natural approach to rebalancing the body and encouraging its internal healing processes. It is a complementary therapy and is frequently used in conjunction with other modalities. It should not be used as a replacement for seeking medical attention for acute or serious illnesses.
The term “reflexology” arises from the stimulation of reflex points on the hands, feet and ears. The body’s natural flow of energy, known as “Qi” becomes blocked due to stressors or imbalances, and by relieving that blockage through stimulation of the nerves, freeing the points of reflexology can restore the unimpeded flow of energy through the organs and systems of the body.
The stimulation of the nerves, accomplished by the placement of pressure on certain points, sends signals through the body that can increase circulation, release endorphins or other chemicals, and balance the nervous system. This opens up the energy flow in the body. Pressure is applied by manipulating parts of the extremities through massage, squeezing, or pushing. There are also special techniques for the use of thumb, fingers or hands.
A Healing Technique from Ancient Times
People in ancient Egypt, China and India all used forms of reflexology. There is evidence in the Egyptian tomb of Ankhmahor, a physician, revealing inscriptions and glyphs showing men performing reflexology treatments.
When reflexology was first introduced to the United States in 1913, it was called Zone Therapy. Dr. William H. Fitzgerald, an otolaryngologist from Boston City Hospital proposed that applying pressure to certain parts of the body relieved pain elsewhere. He also found that underlying causes were also relieved in many cases.
The Evolution of Zone Therapy
The Zone Therapy was initially introduced by Dr. Fitzgerald and was further developed in the 1930s by a nurse, Eunice D. Ingham, who was also a physical therapist. She noted in her work and subsequent research and case studies that hands and feet were particularly sensitive to pressure. She then mapped the entire body to “reflexes” on the feet. From this time on, Zone Therapy became more refined and had evolved into “reflexology.”
Foot Reflexology
The mapping of parts of the foot to their respective body parts, and manipulation of the feet to affect those other parts of the body is known as “foot reflexology.” The parts of the feet have corresponding organs, glands and other areas. The map of the foot has a progressive correlation to the shape of the body. For instance, the tips of the toes are associated with the head; the ball of the foot with the heart and chest; the heel with the lower back and intestines. Charts showing the exact mapping are widely available.
The stimulation of points on the foot activate nerves in the equivalent organs or parts of the body, assisting in the movement of Qi and circulation, and clearing up problems in those locations. Mapping is specific enough to identify areas on the foot that correspond with the lungs, colon, even the fallopian tubes.
It is well known that stress is the precursor to many ailments in today’s society. Relief of stress can be an important preventative measure and can also cure existing ailments. Nurse Ingham’s methods are used primarily for relieving stress and bodily tension and can be a very helpful therapy. Nurse Ingham’s nephew, Dwight C. Byers, has carried on her work and is the director of the International Institute of Reflexology, located in St. Petersburg, Florida. The Institute provides training and continuing education for reflexologists worldwide.
A reflexologist will diagnose disease by feeling the feet. Prolonged stress will be reflected in the feet, as calluses, bunions, and other abnormalities. As the practitioner examines the foot, gauging the patient’s reaction to pressure, and analyzing the surface and structure of the foot, he or she will assess the patient’s stresses and will craft an individualized treatment plan that will suit the patient’s particular needs.
What are the Benefits of Foot Reflexology?
Foot reflexology brings many advantages. Some patients have enjoyed relief from serious diseases, while others see less direct benefits. At the least, sore, tired feet are revitalized. Most often, there are additional benefits including stress reduction, improved circulation, relaxation, improved organ health, and improved sleep. The benefits vary between patients, but can be vast. Be sure to find a qualified reflexologist and follow treatments as recommended to get the optimal results.
What Happens at a Foot Reflexology Session?
A session with a reflexologist will last around an hour. Frequently, the initial session will include an interview of the patient regarding lifestyle and health. When the practitioner and patient are ready to proceed, the patient will remove socks and shoes, and may remain seated, or in some offices will lie on a table.
Most practitioners will conduct their examination and manipulations without oils or creams. Generally, all parts of both feet receive attention in a single session. Most patients will stress free and more relaxed at the end of a session.
Although most people can receive at least some benefit from a foot reflexology session, those who are suffering from certain maladies are most likely to achieve great results. These maladies include addressing tension headaches, resolving stress-related conditions, healing digestive disorders, curing sleep problems, assisting with joint pains, and so on.
Common health disorders respond well to reflexology as an alternate treatment modality, or as a complementary treatment along with other modalities. Restoration of vitality and good health are important benefits from this therapy.
We must remember to stimulate our own bodies’ healing capabilities when we are looking for long-term, effective solutions to common maladies. We will feel better when we restore our bodies’ balance, and the increase of our own healing powers can keep future illnesses from gaining a foothold.
By Chris Christian, writer for HealthyNewAge.com, the alternative health web site and blog.
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