Reflexology is a gentle art, a fascinating science, and an extremely effective form of therapeutic foot massage that has carved an impressive niche in the field of alternative medicine.

It is a science because it is based on physiological and neurological study; it is an art because much depends on how skillfully the practitioner applies his or her knowledge, and the dynamics that occur between practitioner and recipient.

Reflexology is a holistic healing technique - the term “holistic” derived from the Greek word holos, which means “whole” - and as such aims to treat the individual as an entity, incorporating body, mind and spirit.

Reflexologists do not isolate a disease and treat it symptomatically, nor do they work specifically on a problem organ or system, but on the whole person with the object of inducing a state of balance and harmony.

Feet, the map of the body

The art of foot reflex must not be confused with basic foot massage or body massage in general. It is a specific pressure technique that works on precise reflex points on the feet, based on the premise that reflex areas on the feet correspond with all body parts. Because the feet represent a microcosm of the body, all organs, glands, and other body parts are laid out in a similar arrangement on the feet.

The phenomenon of microcosmic representation of body parts in different areas of the body is also evident in the Iris of the eye, the ear, and the hands. The corresponding areas on the feet are, however, easier to locate because they cover a larger area and are more specific, rendering them easier to work on.

Firm pressure is applied to the relevant reflex area using both specific thumb and finger techniques. This causes physiological changes to take place in the body since the body’s own healing potential is stimulated. Thus the feet can play a major role in attaining and maintaining better health.

Who can benefit from reflexology

Reflexology does not discriminate. There are no boundaries or limitations. People of any age or sex - the elderly, women, men, teenagers, children and babies- can derive positive benefits from reflexology.

While many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, at the same time many doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognise reflexology as a well established, respected and effective therapy.

Reflexology has proved itself to be effective, but because no two people are the same, what may be of great benefit for one person may not have the same results for another. Because reflexology treatment reaches the receiver on several levels - physical, mental, and spiritual - it can only be of benefit.

Reflexology and relaxation

In our modern rushed and demanding lifestyle we are susceptible to a continual buildup of tension, anxiety, and fear. However, stress is manufactured within our bodies, not absorbed from external forces. Reflexology expels the suppressed emotions of stress, relaxing both our bodies and our attitudes to life.

One of the most important benefits of reflexology is its efficacy in reducing stress. Approximately 70% of disorders can be related to stress and nerve tension. Because reflexology encourages the body to relax, other functions are also affected. Every part of the body receives its nerve supply direct from the spine. Abnormal tension leads to tightening of the muscles of the spine; thus nerves are affected, resulting in pain. When tension is relaxed, the muscles cease to contract. Blood vessels too are relaxed, reducing vascular constriction and allowing circulation to flow freely, thereby conducting necessary oxygen and nutrients to all the body tissues and organs. This in turn helps cleanse the body of toxins and impurities.

Stress-related disease

Few people can escape the consequences of stress. The increasing number of people with heart disease and high blood pressure is evidence of the more obvious stress-related diseases. Other symptoms though more nebulous, can also be deadly. Long term symptoms of constant exposure to stress are fatigue, anxiety, and depression. The nervous system becomes drained and depleted, and the immune system eroded, making one more susceptible to immunodeficiency diseases.

Not all stress is negative. It can be immensely stimulating. The human body is equipped to cope with short-term invigorating stress. But long-term constant exposure to stress is devastating.

Learning to relax

Reflexology helps to alleviate the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation, thereby allowing the nervous system to function normally and free the body to seek its own homeostasis. Reflexology is a powerful antidote to stress. A relaxed body can heal itself, and reflexology is a guaranteed method of relaxing the body and balancing the biological systems. Initial response to a reflexology treatment varies. Ultimately there will be a surge of vitality and well-being. The overall sensation will then extend to take over the mind and the subconscious.

Reflexology means taking that positive step to release the mind from its shackles, enabling the recipient to become him - or herself, thinking positively in order to exclude ill-health. For hypertension
And anxiety, choose reflexology - it is a safe way to induce relaxation and does not have any unpleasant side-effects.

Why do people use Reflexology?

Whilst used for relaxation, reflexology is also used for a wide range of specific conditions. Stress is certainly one of the most common conditions being treated, however other conditions include asthma, back problems, fertility and HIV. A small percentage use reflexology purely for relaxation or leisure.
When used in the treatment of a specific condition most patients do not see reflexology as a ‘last resort’. In many cases reflexology is being used alongside conventional allopathic medicine and not necessarily instead of it.
How can reflexology help me?

Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium. This gentle effective therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.
Reflexology has been shown to be effective for many conditions including the following:

• Stress-Related Conditions
• Back Pain
• Migraine
• Subfertility
• Arthritis
• Sleep Disorders
• Hormonal Imbalances
• Sports Injuries
• Digestive Disorders

What happens when I go for a treatment?

On your first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.

The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy is unique to each person.

A professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ, gland or system of the body.

A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body’s needs.

How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?

After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is a part of the healing process.
This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Overall…

Reflexology is always effective and should leave the person feeling light, tingly and very pampered.
The treatment itself is deeply relaxing, bringing an immediate release of tension with numerous positive results and prolonged health benefits.