Reflexology

What is Reflexology

Reflexology is an ancient holistic therapy which is applied to the feet and hands. It is conducted by applying a firm pressure with the thumbs and fingers.

Reflexologists believe that the body is reflected on the feet. The feet are divided into ten zones vertically to help locate the body’s organs and sensitivities. Any discomfort found in a particular zone could indicate and imbalance any where in that zone. So, the large toes represent the head and an organ that is; say on the left side of the body will be on the left foot.

Reflexology can not cure ailments, but works on the internal subtle energy flows to rebalance and create “homeostatis” in all the systems of the body. It also works on the mind, body, and spirit as well as encouraging the body to heal it’s self.

History of Reflexology

There are quite a few cultures that have a history of some sort of foot treatment. The main cultures are that of China, India, Japan and Europe.

The earliest proof of foot treatment appears in an Egyptian tomb of ANKMAHOR AT SAQQARA IN ABOUT 2,330 BC. He was an official who is believed to be a physician. This tomb has a picture of two people having a treatment by their slaves and the caption says “Don’t hurt me.” “I shall act so as you praise me.”

Around 1909 Dr Fitzgerald discovered zone therapy and went on to develop it further – eventually using it on his patients.

One person who believed in Fitzpatrick, was a Dr Shelby-Riley. He used this method in his practice for many years.

During the 1930’s Eunice Ingham began working for Dr Shelby-Riley and it was she who had a profound effect on the development of Reflexology.

The name ‘Reflexology’ is her idea.

She shared her knowledge with many people, some were professionals and some not.

She used her nephew Dwight Byers (pictured) as a guinea pig and also trained him to practise Reflexology. It is Dwight Byers who founded The International School of Reflexology in St Petersburg, Florida. Her legacy now continues under her nephew.

Reflexology Treatment

The first treatment will take approximately 1 hour and a half, at this treatment a consultation will be taken to ensure a complete medical history is taken. This is to make sure no contraindications like thrombosis, diabetes, osteoporosis of the feet or unstable blood pressure apply. If so, the person may not be able to be treated.

Possible reactions to a reflexology treatment

After treatment you may notice increased urination, perspiration, headaches, dizziness or nausea. You could also have a flare up of any previous conditions.

You should not worry, whatever the reactions, they are a necessary part of the healing process and will pass. It is just the body riding it’s self of the toxins.

What Reflexology can treat

Reflexology can help with almost every condition: -

• Sinusitis,
• Infertility,
• Circulatory problems,
• Menopausal problems,
• Thyroid imbalances,
• Migraines are renowned to be helped greatly,
• Gout
• and many more…

Please do not hesitate to ask me about the effectiveness of reflexology if you have a particular ailment in mind.

I have also completed a course in ‘Reflexology & The Intestinal Link’ with Ann Gillanders to enhance my Reflexology treatments.

I have also attended seminars on Infertility and Cancer.