What is Reflexology?
A Brief history
Reflexology is an ancient therapy dating back to 2330 B.C., with evidence found in both China and Egypt. North American Indians also practiced foot therapy for centuries. Modern reflexology emerged from "Zone Therapy," re-discovered by Dr. William Fitzgerald in the early 20th century. His work showed that applying pressure on specific points of the body, particularly the feet, could relieve pain and promote healing.
Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist, further developed this practice in the 1930s. She carefully mapped the reflex points on the feet, linking them to various organs and glands, thus establishing the basis for modern reflexology. Her "Original Ingham Method" remains a cornerstone of the therapy today. Reflexology continues to help individuals improve their health by using the body’s natural reflexes to alleviate various ailments.
What is Reflexology
Foot reflexology chart
Reflexology is a type of therapy that uses gentle pressure on specific points along your feet (and possibly on your hands or ears as well) to help you feel better. The theory is that this eases stress, and that helps your body work better. It’s also known as zone therapy.
The way reflexology connects spots on the outside of your body to the inside is a bit like acupuncture and acupressure. But those therapies use points all over your body, not just on your feet, hands, and ears. And while reflexologists do use their hands, it isn’t a form of massage.
Like those other therapies, though, reflexology is complementary to medical treatments. It can be done alongside traditional care, but it’s not an alternative to it, and reflexologists don’t diagnose or treat illnesses.
Reflexology benefits
Reflexology can help reduce stress, enhance relaxation, and boost energy levels. For those with certain health issues, it might also ease pain and discomfort by lowering stress. A review of 17 studies found that reflexology improves well-being and helps manage conditions. Some claim it may alleviate:
Fertility
Anxiety
Labour pain
Arthritis pain
Cancer-related pain
It may also help with:
Sinus issues
Back pain
Constipation
How Does Reflexology Work?
Ivonne conducting energy balancing reflexology
A reflexologist applies pressure to specific points on your hands and feet, known as reflex points. These points correspond to different body parts. By applying pressure to a reflex point, it is believed to help treat the corresponding body part, promoting overall health and well-being.What You Can Expect - Words from Ivonne
As a reflexologist, I start by asking about your health, diet, lifestyle, and any conditions you have. Your answers help me decide whether to work on your feet, hands, ears, or a combination. This is also the time for you to ask any questions.
I begin by gently smoothing oil or cream on your feet. Then, I apply mild to moderate pressure on one foot at a time using different techniques. I might return to certain pressure points, but I'll cover the entire area during the session, not just the points connected to any trouble spots.
Sessions usually last 30 or 60 minutes. You might feel so relaxed that you fall asleep or experience a rush of emotions as energy moves through your body. Afterwards, you could feel energized or have a sense of calm.
