About Reflexology
A non- intrusive touch therapy, Reflexology is a complementary therapy that can be effective in relaxation and wellbeing. The pressure to the feet, hands or ears can reduce stress in people’s lives, optimising good health and building resilience. It is based on the theory that different points on the feet, hands, face or ears correspond with different parts of the body and reflexologists work these points and areas. The treatment is said to induce a healing response, even alleviating some ailments. Modern Reflexology is based on an ancient form of therapy. There is some confusion about the true origin of this therapy, sufficient to say that it has stood the test of time and has helped thousands of people to better health. Many Reflexologists believe that Reflexology originated in China over 5,000 years ago, others support the idea that it dates back to around 4,000BC in Ancient Egypt or that the Babylonians were the creators of Reflexology. An early Egyptian tomb drawing (as seen in the picture on the left) represents what looks like a modern day Reflexology session and the fact that it was found in the Physician’s tomb seems relevant. The hieroglyphics read “Please do not hurt me” and the reply is “I shall act so you praise me”. Reflexology was not introduced to the West until early in the 20th century. The work of Dr William Fitzgerald, an American Physician, in the early 1900’s played a significant role in moving towards modern reflexology as he researched and later published work on ‘zone therapy’. Dr Joseph Shelby Riley, another American Physician, used the techniques of Zone therapy in his practice and refined their use. They both believed that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone. It was then Dr Riley’s assistant, Eunice Ingham, who took Zone therapy one step further and intricately mapped the organs and glands of the body on to reflex points on the feet and hands. She believed that congestion found in a particular reflex point suggested congestion in the corresponding body part and therefore, working the appropriate reflex point would have a positive effect on the corresponding organ or gland. This is what we now know as the modern practice of Reflexology. 1 Rebecca Nutt 8 March 2020 Therapy Objectives The main objective of Reflexology is to bring balance and harmony back to the body. It can also be used to boost the immune system, relives stress and tension, fights off colds and bacterial infections, improves blood supply and lymphatic drainage, changes hormonal imbalances, unblocks nerve impulses and much more. Reflexology can be carried out on most people regardless of their age, weight or build. If a client has a fever, is under the influence of Alcohol or Recreational drugs or has contagious or infectious disease it would prevent treatment being undertaken.
PLEASE NOTE: Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeing your Doctor or taking medical advice. It is a complementary therapy and can be used alongside other medical treatments.
