Reflexology

     Reflexology is an accepted form of massage of the reflexes of the feet, hands and sometimes, the ears.  This practice addresses general and specific body health with small hand and thumb movements and some use of acupressure techniques by the therapist/reflexologist.

      The body contains ten "energy zones".  (More below in History)  Specific areas on the feet and hands are thought to relate to specific organs, glands and other parts of the body in each corresponding zone.  Manipulation of these areas is with the goal of creating a beneficial effect on the related body part.

History

     Reflexology, along with other forms of massage and acupressure techniques, have been used for thousands of years in many ancient cultures.  Dr. William Fitzgerald introduced "Zone Therapy" to the United States in 1915.  He proposed that the human body contains ten zones of energy, which run from skull to feet, with each zone encompassing parts of the body.

Body Zone Chart

Foot and Hand Reflexology Diagrams both courtesy of "Secrets if Reflexology," by Chris McLaughlin and Nicola Hall. Published by DK Publishing, Inc. in 2000.
We are in the process of gaining permission to use this art.

     Palpation of each zone as it falls on the foot or hand manipulates the energy in that zone, and the body parts within.  Physiotherapist Eunice Ingram developed Zone Therapy into modern reflexology in the 1930's, leading to the "maps" of hands and feet used by reflexologists today.

Foot Reflexology Chart

Great Link to Foot Reflexology Diagram by Kenrico.com®

Hand Reflexology Chart

Foot and Hand Reflexology Diagrams both courtesy of "Secrets if Reflexology," by Chris McLaughlin and Nicola Hall. Published by DK Publishing, Inc. in 2000.
We are in the process of gaining permission to use this art.

Benefits of Reflexology

• Promotes relaxation
• Improves circulation
• Soothes tired nerves
• Invigorates sore feet
• Reduces pain
• Relaxes muscles
• Detoxifies
• Promotes overall healing

      Reflexology can help many conditions, including arthritis, back pain, digestive disorders, insomnia, PMS, sports injuries, stress and tension headaches.

What to Expect at Your Reflexology Session

     Your reflexology session will begin with a consultation.  Please be as thorough as possible in discussing any specific health problems, as this helps assess the treatment possibilities.  You will then be asked to remove your shoes and socks, and will relax for a few minutes in a warm lavender foot soak.  Following the foot bath, you will be comfortably positioned on the massage table, fully clothed.  The therapist will start with an assessment of the feet for tension areas, then warm up the feet with massage movements.  As the session progresses, let the therapist know if the pressure is too light or too deep, as well as any tender areas that may require extra attention.  By giving feedback to the therapist, the session becomes more productive for both of you. After reflexology, you may or may not want to re-dress your feet...  Please step into the office to complete the session and book your next appointment.

Getting the Best Results From Reflexology

• Smooth, clean feet can enhance the effectiveness of the session.  Have any corns, calluses and infections treated by a podiatrist or medical doctor prior to reflexology sessions.
• Do not consume heavy meals, sugar, caffeine or alcohol just prior to your session.
• Turn off cell phones and pagers before entering office.
• Drink plenty of water to flush out toxins released during reflexology.

     After the treatment, most people feel calm, relaxed and quite possibly invigorated.  Feeling slightly emotional or anxious is less likely, but a normal reaction and is related to the body ridding itself of toxins.  Reflexology should never be painful or leave bruises and is contraindicated for varicose veins, breaks in the skin, infection or current injury/surgery on feet.

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