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Reflexology

 

Reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China. But it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as "zone therapy".
 
He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.  In the 1930s, Eunice Ingham fur­ther developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflex­ology.  She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body. Reflexology is based on this the­ory and is regarded as a gentle complementary therapy because it can work well with other thera­pies and conventional medicine.  Reflexologists do not claim to cure specific illnesses but encour­age the body's own healing mech­anisms to restore and maintain its natural equilibrium.
 
What to expect reflexology
When you go for a treatment, there will be a preliminary talk with the reflexologists. Then you will remove your shoes and socks and normally lie on a treatment couch while the reflexologists begins to work on your feet.  The practitioner applies controlled pressure with thumbs or fingers to specific areas of the feet.
 
For the most part the treatment is very pleasant and soothing.  There may be discomfort in some places but this is fleeting, and is an indication of tension or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body.  Treatment usually lasts for about an hour. Your reflexologists will discuss the number of ses­sions appropriate for you at the first session.
 
Possible responses to reflexology
After the first treatment or two, your body may respond in a very definite way.  You may have a feeling of well­being and relaxation or you may feel lethargic, nauseous or tearful for a short time.  This is transitory and is simply part of the healing process. Once your body is back in tune, it is wise to have regular maintenance treatments.

 

Who can reflexology help
Reflexology practitioners do not treat "conditions" - they treat '''people'' and reflexology is not a substitute for orthodox medical treatment.  However it has proved very ben­eficial for a wide range of chronic and acute conditions - especially for all stress-related problems.
 
Many practitioners have reported that clients with prob­lems such as sinusitis, asthma, migraine, depression, ME, mus­cular and skeletal disorders, men­strual problems, hypertension, bowel disorders, fertility prob­lems and lots more, have bene­fited from treatment. Reflexology has also helped small babies with colic, main­tained peak condition in athletes and brought peace to the dying.   An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural ther­apy as a way of relaxing, balanc­ing and harmonising the body.

 

Contacting a reflexologists 
When choosing a reflexologists, it is wise to ensure the practi­tioner has been properly trained at a reputable school or training establishment, works to a profes­sional code of ethics and is fully insured to practise on members of the public. 
 
The  Association  of  Reflexologists publishes a regis­ter of qualified practitioners to which the public can refer with confidence. A list of qualified reflexologists can also be found on the Association's website http://www.aor.org.uk under Find a Reflexologists or by telephone on 08705673320.