Reflexology

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a therapy and treatment modality where pressure is applied by the therapist to the client’s feet, hands and/or ears. Reflex points which exist on these parts of the body, when stimulated, can bring a neurological response in another area of the body. Reflexology is based on the principle that these reflex points are related to the internal body systems and are laid out on the feet, hands and ears forming a ‘map’ or microcosm of the body as a whole.

The aim of a reflexology treatment is to return balance to the client’s body. As a holistic technique, reflexology can also bring balance and harmony to your mind and spirit. A reflexologist does not heal the body, the body heals itself, but reflexology greatly aids this self healing process. Reflexology can also be used preventatively to keep the body in good working order.

Where did reflexology come from?

Ancient history indicates that reflexology was originally practised in Egypt, India and China. The feet are often depicted in Buddhist and Hindu temples and they illustrate the concept of the feet containing all the elements of the universe in sign and symbol form. In this same vein, the view that the feet are a microcosm of the body has come about. The scientific basis for reflexology comes from neurological studies that were carried out in the UK in the late 1800s. It was discovered that using a pressure technique across the soles of the feet would result in the nerve endings in the feet being stimulated, causing stimulation and healing in the parts of the body that the nerves supplied.

Why use reflexology?

Reflexology works within the body on two levels, neither are distinct from each other. Firstly, by working on pressure points on the feet, hands and ears we are stimulating the nerve endings which finish at these parts of the body. By stimulating these nerve endings and at the same time breaking up deposits that can be found in the tissues of the feet we can help break down and eliminate toxic waste products that may have built up in the body. The stimulation of the nerve endings also results in those areas of the body which the nerves supply being positively affected.

Reflexology is a very balancing, gentle and holistic treatment where the entire body’s systems are addressed. In this way, we are encouraging a rebalancing of the energy flow through the body. When we feel better physically, we feel better psychologically. Such an improved sense of well being can result in a calmer, more positive and peaceful outcome for body and mind.