What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a non-invasive natural complementary therapy. Thumb or finger pressure is used on specific points of the feet (or in some instances the hands) known as reflexes. It works on the theory that these reflex points map via the nervous system to corresponding parts of the body and by stimulating them it encourages the body to balance and heal itself. This holistic approach works on the health of the whole person, rather than one particular symptom, to promote equilibrium emotionally, mentally and physically.
Who is it for?
Reflexology is deeply relaxing for both body and mind for people of all ages. It can help to
* release tension
* improve sleep and mood
* increase well-being
Why not try it to de-stress? Symptoms of stress can manifest themselves in all sorts of ways. It can bring on physical symptoms such as constipation, digestive issues, recurrent illnesses such as colds, hunched shoulders, headaches, heart palpitations, frequent urination, loss of appetite, fatigue, muscle tenseness, to name a few. We can also suffer emotionally or mentally and feel, for example, anxious, distressed, worried, withdrawn, easily agitated, inadequate or frustrated. By becoming more relaxed you are helping to promote the right conditions in the body for self-healing. Reflexologists can not claim to cure, prescribe or diagnose and should not be used as an alternative to seeing a doctor. However, it can be used alongside other medical treatments.
History of reflexology
Evidence of working the feet and hands to improve well-being goes back thousands of year to the time of the Egyptians (circa 2330BC). It is also found in ancient Chinese and Indian civilisations. Modern reflexology is about a century old and stems from the work of Dr William Fitzgerald, an ENT surgeon who founded zone therapy. It was further developed in the 1930s by Eunice Ingham who began to map the body onto the feet. She observed the link between congestion or tension in certain parts of the feet, mirroring corresponding imbalances in parts of the body.
For more information about reflexology please visit the Association of Reflexologists (AoR)'s site - AoR
