Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears, which correspond to every gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes, Reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promote the natural function of the related areas of the body.
HOW DOES REFLEXOLOGY WORK?
Reflexology is highly effective in reducing stress and pain throughout the body by putting the client into a deeply relaxed state. In this state, the function of the nervous system shifts mainly into its optimal parasympathetic (involuntary) mode. When the body is in this state of relaxation, it has the ability to re-establish its balance and consequently its self-healing potential.
There are approximately 7,200 nerve endings on the bottom of each foot, which have connections through the sciatic nerve to the spinal cord and brain. By alleviating blockage by breaking up uric and lactic acid crystals deposits in the feet, the crystals are released into the blood stream and eliminated through the urinary system. This relieves the congestion in the body and the body functions flow smoothly, ultimately allowing the body systems to achieve refined internal peace and balance.
ZONES of the BODY and FOOT CHART
Reflexology identifies 10 vertical zones of the body, which link one part of the body to another. Five of these are located on the right side of the body and five are located on the left. Each zone travels the length of the body from the toes, fingers and top of the head.
There are 10 vertical zones on the feet, five on either foot. Generally, the right side of the body is related to the right foot and the left side of the body is related to the left foot. Occasionally there are some people who show a crossover of sensation.
BENEFITS OF REFLEXOLOGY
- Reflexology can be used for all ages
- It is a holistic non-invasive therapy
- Reduces stress, tension, and anxiety
- Increases blood and lymphatic flow
- Improves oxygen and normalizes glandular function
- Cleanses the body of toxins
- Improves emotional imbalances
- Enhances all other treatments such as shiatsu, massage, acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments
- Reflexology helps the body to heal faster after surgery
- Reflexology increases the attention span
HISTORY
Reflexology dates back more than 4000 years to the ancient time of the Egyptians. This wall painting is dated approximately 2,330 B.C. early 6th Dynasty. It depicts the practice of hand and foot reflexology in the tomb of Ankhmahor (highest official after the Pharaoh) at Saqqara, known as the physicians’ tomb.
Prior to the discovery of the painting, it was widely believed that Reflexology had ancient origins along with the Oriental practices of shiatsu and acupuncture. Some researchers believe that Reflexology is over 5,500 years old. It is speculated that it was known thousands of years ago in India, and was brought to China and Japan by Buddhist Monks. Monks and priests have often been involved in healing in every culture, but especially in the Far East. Similarly, in North America the Inca’s are believed to have practiced Reflexology on the feet.
– from Reflexology Association of Canada – http://www.reflexologytoronto.com –