What is Reflexology
Is it Magic? Is it a Science?
(It does have an "ology")
It’s thought that Reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt and these ancient forms of foot massage were based on the principle that energy zones run throughout the body.
This principle which became Zone Therapy was further developed in the early 19th century. These ideas were then expanded when practitioners such as Eunice Ingham found that working with the feet was most effective, as they were the most sensitive and responsive areas, with thousands of nerve endings.
Reflexology was introduced to Britain in the early 1960s and continues to grow in popularity. It is a relaxing holistic therapy treating the mind and body as a whole based on the principle that reflex points on the soles, tops and sides of the feet are connected to corresponding areas throughout the body. Each foot is divided into five zones (along the length of the feet) and in this way the feet can be seen as a “map of the body”.
Sometimes during the course of our lives our emotional or physical wellbeing can be “off kilter” and our energy zones can become congested. Reflexology offers a safe, effective and natural complementary treatment for a variety of health concerns. Reflexologists work on the foot reflexes with their thumbs and fingers using specialised massage techniques with a firm yet gentle pressure to stimulate areas relating to each body system achieving balance and encouraging our bodies to relax, therefore releasing tension.
Studies show that over 75% of health problems can be linked to tension and stress and increasingly our lifestyles not only cause a great deal of stress, but mostly does nothing to relieve it.
Benefits can include:
Reduced stress levels
Feelings of deep relaxation
Increased energy levels
The release of endorphins – the body’s feel good hormones
Improved circulation
Improved sleep
Efficient removal of impurities and toxins
Boosts the immune system
Regular treatments can help maintain good health and well-being
Effectiveness of helping with infertility, hormonal imbalances, anxiety, migraine and many more.
Whilst the benefits of Reflexology are many it is important to remember that Reflexology doesn’t diagnose or claim to cure any conditions. It complements traditional medicine and should not be used as a substitute for clinical and medical treatments or advice.
Contraindications to treatment:
Working alongside healthcare practitioners the following conditions require medical approval: diabetes, epilepsy, heart conditions, extreme high or low blood pressure, endocrine disorders, cancer, post operative, phlebitis, severe widespread psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, any serious skin complaint, pregnancy.
The following conditions would prevent any treatment: contagious skin conditions, athletes foot, verrucas, fungal nail infections, any untreated severe medical problems, under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
