Reflexology is the fastest growing non-invasive complimentary modality. It is gentle and yet very therapeutic; it’s used as an adjunct treatment in conjunction with medical and other alternative therapies and also as a standalone therapy for health maintenance.
How the treatment is applied
Reflexology involves a method of treatment, which requires systematically applying alternating pressure, using thumb, finger and hand techniques to “reflex areas and zones” found in the feet, hands and outer ears. The organs, glands, and systems of the body, such as lymphatic, digestive, and circulatory, have corresponding reflex areas in the feet, hands and ears and are arranged in such a way as to form a complete map wherein the entire right side of the body is represented on the right foot and also on the right hand and right ear and the left side of the body is represented on the left foot, hand and ear. Reflexology treats the whole body on the physical, mental and spiritual level. This is an important factor since it allows not only the symptoms to be treated but also the underlying causes of these symptoms.
How it works
There are many theories of how Reflexology works and some people will also say that “We don’t know why it works but it does.” One theory, for example, refers to what is called a nerve reflex arc in physiology. It is believed that the electromagnetic impulses generated when pressure is applied to a reflex point follow a nerve pathway to the spine, then to the brain and back to the organ or part of the body that is supported by the nerves of the spine. This process affects the nerve and subtle energy systems of the body. The nerve impulses that are stimulated bring about relaxation, improved circulation and lymph flow and have a normalizing effect on that area of the body. In addition, the micro-deposits of toxins and acidic crystals accumulated at the nerve endings are released and eliminated by the body.
For example, a person may be experiencing stiffness in the neck and the reflex points for the neck, which are found at the base of the great toes, at the base of the thumbs, and also in the outer ear, may be tender when pressure is applied. By applying alternating pressure to these reflex points and to other supporting reflexes such as the spine with emphasis on the cervical, the solar plexus, diaphragm, shoulder, all toes and adrenals, electromagnetic impulses are generated involving the spine, the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. The resulting effect is relaxation to the neck area and relief from stiffness.
The theories that touch and the intention set by both the practitioner and the client invoking a healing energy force also have an effect, are no less important in the success of the treatment.
Reflexology is not new
Reflexology has a long history and artwork from ancient cultures points to a tradition of it being practiced long ago. Modern Reflexology is based on the work of two American physicians, Dr. William Fitzgerald and Dr. Joe Shelby Riley who practiced medicine in the 1920's and on the work of physiotherapist Eunice D. Ingham who created the Reflexology maps and promoted what she called Foot Reflexology in the late 1930's through the early 70's.
Scientific background and Research Studies
The scientific basis to Reflexology began in the last century in Europe and Russia and research studies validating the effectiveness of Reflexology continue to be conducted around the world and show its effectiveness on numerous different disorders including chronic conditions such as diabetes, migraine, sinus problems, hormonal imbalances, infertility, breathing disorders, digestive problems, circulatory problems, back problems and tension and stress. Recent research shows that Reflexology also helps in the reduction of pain, in improving the effectiveness of medication, and in reducing side effects of drug therapy while achieving results.
Reflexology for stress reduction
Over 80% of doctor’s visits are attributed to conditions caused by prolonged stress. We live in a world of constant stress, which negatively affects our mental, physical, and emotional states. Reflexology is primarily a relaxation technique and there is enough evidence that Reflexology is a safe and effective therapy used to negate the effects of stress while it helps the body relax and can help restore one’s health naturally. Reflexology is often used as an adjunct treatment to any type of medical approach or therapy but is not considered a substitute for medical care. Ideally, Reflexology should be incorporated into an overall healthy lifestyle, which includes attention to diet, moderate exercise, and different forms of stress reduction and relaxation. Reflexology has been included in some of Denmark and Japan’s large companies’ employee health programs given its effectiveness in reducing absenteeism.
Finding a Reflexology Therapist
The Reflexology Association of America advises to look for a Reflexologist who, at a minimum, has received instruction and certification at the 200 hour level. Many Reflexologists have gone on to become Board Certified through ARCB (American Reflexology Certification Board), the national, nonprofit testing agency for Reflexology in the US. ARCB certificants are further required to obtain continuing education training. To find a certified Reflexologist near you, check RAA’s web site www.Reflexology-usa.org, or www.arcb.net. You can also check with your local State Reflexology Association.
In closing, I hope this article has stimulated your interest in Reflexology and that you will make it part of your healthy lifestyle regimen.