Reflexology - A Natural Healing Practice

 What is Reflexology?

"Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears, which correspond to every part, gland and organ in the body.  Through application of pressure on these reflexes, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation, and helps to promote the natural healing function of the related area of the body."

Reflexology Association of Canada

Reflexology is a healing practice that uses massage-like pressures on the feet, hands or ears to relax, rebalance and support the natural healing of other parts of the body. 

What are the benefits of Reflexology?

Reflexology promotes relaxation and activates the natural healing power of the body.   Reflexology is recognized as stimulating over 7,000 nerve endings in the feet, helping to establish balance throughout the body, assiting in cleansing toxins and in enhansing relaxation.  Reflexologists work to

•  Relieve tension
• Improve circulation
• Help promote natural healing

What is the history of Reflexology?

The history of Reflexology goes back thousands of years.  Early pictographs have been found that depict reflexology techniques used in the Tomb of the Physician dated from 2330 BCE. 

In the West, Dr. William F. Fitzgerald, a medical doctor, developed "zone therapy", demonstrating that pressure applied to one part of the body could anesthetize another area of the body.   In the 1930's Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist, dicovered that there were areas in the feet that could be related to specific areas of the body.  She went on to map the feet, relating areas of the feet to all major areas of the body.  These works formed the foundation of modern Reflexology.

The work of Eunice Ingham has been expanded throughout the world. Today, Reflexology is widely practiced in Germany, China, England, Australia, United States and Canada, and, in many other countries.  Comprehensive training is sponsored by the government in Denmark where Reflexology is a recognized partner in complemenatry health practice.  There are many national, regional and local Reflexology associations around the world.  Additionally, the International Council of Reflexologists  brings together an international group of reflexologists to share practice and research findings.

Can you describe a Reflexology session?

A reflexology session both relaxes and supports natural healing. Using specific pressure points and massage-like techniques on the hands and feet, reflexology treatments stimulate thousands of nerve endings in the feet or hands. You remain fully clothed, only needeing to remove shoes and socks and recline in a specially designed reflexology chair. Reflexology can reduce stress, promote relaxation, improve circulation and encourage natural healing.

How can I learn more about Reflexology?

Additional information about refrlexology is available fromn bookstores, libraries and on the internet.  Recent books by respected authors such Barbara and Kevin Kunz, Laura Norman and Beryl Crane can expand your knowledge of Reflexology as a complementary healing practice.