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By: Ikedi Ani-okoye.

Reflexology introduction

Reflexology is an ancient healing art which naturally and without drugs stimulates every part, organ and gland in the body. It can help to relieve tension, release toxins, improve circulation and bring the body back to healing. This form of therapy has been around since 2500 BC but is only now gaining popularity in North America with many holistic spas introducing the service to their clients. It dates back to the early Egypt, Japan, China and India. Today, Reflexology is covered by the health care system in England, China and Denmark.

Reflexology workings

There are many theories but in our approach we look at the nervous system as the explanation of reflexology's working.

Pressure sensors in the feet and hands are a part of the body's reflexive response that makes possible the "fight or flight" reaction to danger. Feet ready to flee and hands ready to fight communicate with the body's internal organs to make possible wither eventuality. The sudden adrenal surge that enables a person to lift a car is an example of this reaction. Reflexology taps into this reflex network, providing an exercise of pressure sensors and thus the internal organs to which they are inextricably tied.

Reflexology treatment

Reflexology treatments can take up to an hour or more and usually about six weekly sessions are recommended for optimum results. A trained reflexologist will, like other professionals in complementary healthcare, take a detailed case history on your first visit. You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit on a treatment couch or special reclining chair. The general appearance of your foot will be examined as any sores or corns cannot receive pressure. 

The treatment involves light, but firm, compression massage to the soles and uppers of your feet possibly using talc but never oil. As the reflex points are very small the reflexologist has to be very precise.

CONCLUSION

The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are "reflex" areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body. For example:

• the tips of the toes reflect the head
  
• the heart and chest are around the ball of the foot
  
• the liver, pancreas and kidney are in the arch of the foot
  
• low back and intestines are towards the heel