What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a form of ‘alternative’ or ‘complementary’ medicine and involves a method of treatment using massage to reflex areas found in the feet and the hands.

The feet have reflex areas corresponding to all the parts of the body, these areas are arranged in such a way as to form a map of the body in the feet. The right foot corresponds to the right side of the body and the left foot corresponds to the left side of the body. By having the whole body represented in the feet, the method offers a means of treating the whole body and of treating the body as a whole. This latter point is an important factor of natural therapy and allows not only symptoms to be treated but also the causes of symptoms.

The method has been used for several thousand years and is known to have been practised in a similar manner by the Chinese and the Egyptians. More recently, reflexology was described in the form in which it is now known by the late Eunice Ingham, an American lady who based her method of treatment on work called ‘Zone Therapy’. This had been described some years earlier in the 1920s by an American, Dr. William Fitzgerald. The main pioneer of reflexology in Great Britain was the late Doreen Bayly who introduced the method in the early 1960s and whose great determination to stimulate awareness and interest in the method should not be forgotten.

Reflexology does not claim to be a ‘cure-all’, but numerous different disorders have been minimised by this method. Reflexology can help with migraines, sinus problems, hormonal imbalances, breathing disorders, digestive problems, circulatory problems, back problems and tension and stress. Most people who have experienced treatment would agree that the method can be most beneficial and is also a very relaxing therapy.

What to expect from reflexology treatment

When first visiting a reflexology practitioner a detailed medical history will be taken. The patient will then be seated in some form of recliner chair or similar sitting position and will be asked to remove their shoes and socks.

The practitioner will initially examine the feet before commencing with the precise massage movement. The particular type of massage involved requires the application of a firm pressure using the side and end of the thumb. In some instances, the fingers may also be employed. All areas on both feet will be massaged. Areas corresponding to parts of the body which are out of balance will feel uncomfortable or tender when massaged and the degree of tenderness will indicate the degree of imbalance. The sensitivity of the feet varies from person to person. The trained practitioner will understand the correct pressure to apply and how to interpret the tenderness felt. The massage should not be very uncomfortable, regardless of the sensitivity of a person’s feet.

The full treatment session will last approximately three quarters of an hour, and at the end of a session the feet should feel warm and the patient should feel relaxed. The number of treatment sessions required will vary depending on the condition being treated.

Following treatment, it is sometimes possible that the eliminating systems of the body become more active in order to rid the body of unwanted toxic matter. However, if treatment is correctly applied, these reactions should not be severe. Reflexology is a particularly pleasant means of treatment and a means of maintaining the body in good health.

How does reflexology work?

Reflexologists believe that the feet mirror the body. All organs, systems, and glands of the body can be mapped onto areas of the feet called reflex points. A reflexologist knows how to stimulate the reflex points in order to bring about a response in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese theory that energy is flowing all around our bodies. If the energy can flow freely then we are balanced and healthy. If the energy is obstructed, illness may result.

Reflexology is a holistic therapy

Reflexology works along holistic principles aiming to treat your mind, body and spirit rather than a diagnosis or set of symptoms. For instance, if you are suffering from stress, your body may be affected as well as your mind. Similarly, a physical illness can be emotionally draining. Reflexology aims to rebalance the whole of your being and so may be more effective than working directly on one part of you.

What does a reflexologist feel during treatments?

A qualified reflexologist believes they can feel crystal deposits on the feet and hands, which could indicate areas of sluggish energy flow. A reflexologist would work these areas with the intention to break down the deposits and restore energy flow, thus enabling the body to get rid of toxic waste products and heal itself.

Could reflexology help me?

Everyone may benefit from reflexology – women, men, children, and the elderly.

Reflexology may be effective for many conditions including joint pain, breathing disorders, digestive problems, fertility issues, headaches/migraines, hormonal imbalances, pain relief, sleep disorders, stress and stress-related conditions.

Reflexology may help relieve congestion, aid circulation, relax muscles, calm over activity and stimulate under activity. It may improve cooperation and coordination between the bodily systems. It is a gentle therapy that aims to encourage the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexologists do not claim to cure, diagnose, or prescribe.