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diseldriver · Joined: 03 Nov 2006 Posts: 31 Location: LA;-USA

Reflexology

Reflexology has been known to man for thousands of years. It is a natural healing science based on the principal that the anatomy of the body is reflected in miniature on reflex zones on the feet and hands. By using specific pressure techniques and massage on these regions, healing is both initiated and accelerated in the corresponding area of the body. This simple, non-invasive, beautifully balancing therapy brings relief to a wide range of acute and chronic conditions and is suitable for all ages.

On your first visit there is a preliminary consultation, where your general health and medical history will be discussed. As Reflexology is a holistic therapy it is important that your therapist understands your body as a whole, and is aware of any medical conditions. The treatment then begins with work on your feet or hands if necessary. There may be discomfort in some places, but it is fleeting and can be an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. For the most part, the sensation is pleasant and soothing. Reflexology will relax you while stimulating your body’s own healing mechanisms.

A treatment varies in length depending on your body’s needs and usually lasts for about one hour, although the initial consultation may add some time to your first visit.

The Benefits of Reflexology

An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural therapy as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, the body can be in a state of imbalance and vital energy pathways may be 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 her hands to apply gentle 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 at its own pace, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.

The History of Reflexology

The ancient healing art of Reflexology was first practiced by early Indian, Chinese and Egyptian people.

Dr. William Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose and throat surgeon, introduced this therapy to the West in 1913. 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 concluded that pressure on one part of a zone could affect everything else within that zone. Thus, reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930’s, a therapist called Eunice Ingham further developed and refined the zone therapy, into what is now known as foot 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.

The Association Of Reflexologists

The Association was founded in 1984. It arose from a need to establish standards and to provide a network of qualified practitioners to which the public can refer with confidence. It is a truly independent organisation, not affiliated to any particular training establishment.

The aim of the Association is to help maintain a high standard of practice and patient-care and to promote reflexology. Members are men and women who are qualified therapists and who abide by the Association’s Codes of Practice and Ethics. They do not claim to cure, diagnose medical conditions or prescribe. They do not treat specific ailments, but treat the person by stimulating and balancing the whole body.

The Association publishes a Referral Register of practitioners for the benefit of members of the public who wish to consult a qualified and experienced reflexologist. These members can be recognised by the letters MAR after their name. For those wishing to learn the art of Reflexology, the Association also publishes a list of recognised and accredited training establishments.