Reflexology focuses on the whole person with the aim of balancing the mind, body and spirit. It is a complementary therapy that is performed on the feet. Its aim is to promote relaxation, giving you that ‘me time’ and the space to focus on yourself. It is a wonderful way to support you through the stresses and strains placed upon you by everyday life, helping to restore the body’s natural balance.
Reflexology is based on the theory that the feet are a microcosm of the body and that different reflex points on the feet correspond with the organs, glands and all systems of the body. Applying pressure to these points will help to relieve tension and stress.
After a treatment, many of my clients report an improvement in their general wellbeing and other things may improve too. The results can be very surprising. The only way to see if reflexology will work for you is to try it!
My clients come to me for a variety of reasons. In addition to classic foot reflexology I also work with clients in a number of specific areas:
In one amazing treatment reflexology benefits the body by working on five key areas:
Background
Reflexology is based on the principle that there are different points on the feet which correspond with the organs, glands and parts of the body. It is based on zone theory whereby the body is divided into 10 vertical zones ending in the fingers and toes. Every organ, gland, muscle etc. lies within a zone that can be accessed via a specific reflex point on the feet.
Reflexologists use special finger thumb manipulation to stimulate and sedate reflexes. It is thought this helps relieve tension in the corresponding part of the body.
Millions of people around the world use reflexology alongside conventional health care. Reflexology is a tool to counteract the effects of stress which can have negative impact upon the body and mind.
It is important to note that reflexology cannot claim to cure and the therapist is not able to make a diagnosis. Diagnosis can only be made by your doctor or medical practitioner.
History
Reflexology has been practiced for centuries and has its roots in the ancient civilisations of Egypt, India and China.
Reflexology was possibly first recorded as a pictograph on an Egyptian tomb in 2330BC. Paintings of the Hindu god Vishnu record Sanskrit symbols on Vishnu's feet which may depict reflexology points. The Chinese classic 'The Yellow Emperors Classic Internal Medicine' which was written 1,000 BC discusses the connection of life force and points and areas on the feet.
Modern reflexology was brought to the world’s attention by Dr. William Fitzgerald in 1913 and he designed a chart on the longitudinal zones on the body.
The term 'reflexology' was first coined in the 1930s by physiotherapist Eunice Ingham. She observed that congestion or tension in any parts of the foot is mirrored in corresponding part of the body and she subsequently developed the foot map which is still in use today.