Definition

Reflexology is based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole.
Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands and ears. These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body's own natural healing process. The body starts progressively clearing blockages, re-establishing energy flows and balancing itself, resulting in better health. There are many different styles and approaches used in reflexology, however the basic principle is constant.Subtle yet powerful, reflexology is becoming increasingly popular in the world of complementary therapies.

History

Most ancient cultures had some form of foot therapy. The Native American Indian cultures, Egyptians and Chinese independently developed methods which were all based on the same principle. Centuries and social change saw many of these techniques lost to time. Reflexology as we know it today began as a theory called Zone Therapy, conceived by Dr. William Fitzgerald in the USA in the early 1900s. His protege, Eunice Ingham, took the concept further by researching positioning and effects of certain points ultimately leading to an anatomical map of the body being overlaid onto the foot. From this point reflexology has spread throughout the world once more, going full circle to be reintroduced to countries which had forgotten the art eons ago.

With such a rich history it is no surprise that reflexology has continued to evolve.
It is widely used in hospitals in China and many European companies now have reflexologists on staff to combat stress in the workplace.

Benefits and Effects

Regular reflexology has many beneficial and lasting effects. Some are of a more general nature, balancing and restoring systems for better function, and some are quite specific, addressing the client's particular conditions.

A growing number of research studies now demonstrate the efficacy of reflexology.

Some general benefits are that reflexology:

• reduces stress and tension
• improves circulation
• balances the nervous system
• boosts lymphatic function thereby reducing oedema, reducing toxicity and improving immunity
• stimulates sluggish, congested systems
• reduces pain
• enhances the body's natural healing process, improves sleep, increases energy and vitality
• promotes body awareness
  

Relaxation is the first step to better health. Reflexology , due to its profoundly relaxing nature, can bring relief directly to the area of the body where tension is held thereby easing and relieving symptoms. Regular sessions work gently to bring the entire body back to a state of wellness.