Reflexology

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a wonderfully relaxing holistic treatment based on the concept that reflex points on the soles, tops and sides of the feet are connected to corresponding areas throughout the entire body. With this in mind, all parts of the body and it's internal structures can be mapped out on the feet. Each foot is divided into five zones along their length, and are believed to correspond to different areas within the body. For example the toes are believed to correspond to the head and neck region.

Reflexology can also be carried out on the hands as well as the feet because the zones running through the feet also have corresponding zones within the hands.

Thechniques and Theory

Reflexologists work on the reflexes on the feet or hands with their thumbs and fingers using specialized massage techniques believed to help correct imbalances throughout the body, and assist with the release of blocked energy.

Crystal deposits within sensory nerve endings are also broken down and released into the lymphatic system which helps flush the body of unwanted toxins.

The Benefits of Reflexology

Reflexology has many health benefits helping you to maintain physical, mental and emotional well being, especially when it's part of your wellness routine.

• Reflexology calms the nervous system and promotes a sense of relaxation and well-being.
• Reflexology reduces tension, stress and anxiety.
• Reflexology can help with the symptoms of depression / low mood.
• Reflexology improves blood circulation, which delivers oxygen and nutrients to the cells in the body.
• Reflexology stimulates the lymphatic system, which carries away the body's waste products and toxins.
• Reflexology helps the release of endorphins, the body's feel good hormones which can also provide pain relief with conditions such as, arthritis, sciatica, muscle spasms etc.

History of Reflexology

Reflexology is thought to have originated over 5000 years ago when the Chinese practiced a variety of pressure therapies and acupuncture, as a preventative form of medicine. Several drawings over the years have been unearthed from other parts of Asia (India, Japan and china) showing diagrams of healing through the use of pressure points at the feet and hands.

Evidence on the use of reflexology has been also unearthed in Egypt in the tomb of Ankmahor at Saqqara. The tomb is popularly referred to as the “Physician's Tomb” and holds a series of hieroglyphs which shows a relatively detailed foot treatment. Underneath the picture it is written, “Make these give strength, reply, ‘I will do thy pleasure,’ reply, ‘Do not cause pain to these.” These finds are estimated to date back to about 2330 B.C. It has hence helped to fuel the theory that this holistic healing art has in fact originated from ancient Egypt.

It is known that in addition to the Chinese and Egyptians, Japanese, Indians and Russians also worked on the feet to promote good health. Since then reflexology has been adapted and developed over the years to give us the technique that is currently used today.