Reflexology
History
Reflexology is the modern name for a therapy that has been known and used successfully in many countries of the Ancient World. It was first recorded in Egypt about 2330 BC. Here is a wall painting in the tomb of Ankhmahor - the highest official after the king, and is known as "The Physician's Tomb". The translation reads: "do not let it be painful." The practitioners reply: "I do as you please."
I firmly agree with this, reflexology is gentle, relaxing and people with whom I work often fall asleep during the session and wake up feeling very calm and refreshed. Reflexology is becoming widely recognised by the medical profession, as it is now an established branch of Complementary Medicine.
Practice
The art of reflexology must not be confused with basic foot massage or body massage in general. It is a specific pressure technique that works on precise reflex points on the feet, based on the premise that reflex areas on the feet correspond with all body parts. Because the feet represent a microcosm of the body, all organs, glands, and other body parts are mirrored on the feet. Pressure is applied to the relevant reflex areas using both specific thumb and finger techniques. This causes physiological changes to take place in the body since the body's own healing potential is stimulated. Thus, the feet can play a major role in attaining and maintaining better health. Reflexology can also be given to the face and hands.
Benefits of reflexology
Almost everyone can benefit from reflexology. High levels of stress can often lead to a wide range of health problems. Reflexology can help to reduce the physical and emotional stresses and anxieties of today's world by bringing balance and harmony to the different body systems. It can calm or stimulate according to the needs of the body.
Reflexology promotes and encourages Total Body Relaxation, restful sleep, and generally gives a wonderful feeling of Wellbeing. I trained in Reflexology in 1988-89 with the Scottish School of Reflexology and have been a member of the Scottish Institute of Reflexology since 1989. This qualification is also recognised by the British Complementary Medicine Association (B.C.M.A.).
Reflexology Session
Foot reflexology lasts up to an hour.