Complementary Therapy  :::  Reflexology Courses

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology involves gentle and therapeutic massaging of the feet (and sometimes hands too) to encourage and activate the body's innate ability to heal itself. The principles of reflexology have been practised for thousands of years. Ancient illustrations and cave drawings throughout India, China and Egypt depict early forms of the technique. Similar to the practice of shiatsu, the major goal of reflexology is to restore the balance and flow of life energy throughout the body by applying pressure to strategic points primarily in the feet.

The term reflexology implies that a reflexive response may be triggered through stimulating certain points in the feet. These points correspond to ten zones, mapped out by American Dr. William Fitzgerald in the 1900s. Dr. Fitzgerald postulated that ten zones divided evenly between the right and left sides of the body corresponded to the five toes and fingers. The zones were connected by energy meridians that could facilitate pain relief through stimulation.

Physiologist Eunice Ingham, Dr. Fitzgerald’s protégé, studied the relationship between an individual’s feet and the functions of various organs, glands and other areas of the body. After more than ten years of research, Ingham mapped out these connections, providing the basis for the modern day practice of reflexology.

What are the health benefits?

More than just a foot massage, reflexology is believed to relieve pain and dysfunction throughout the entire body through compressing various areas of each foot. There are more than 7,000 nerve endings in the feet, which are intimately connected to the nervous system and which make the feet very sensitive to touch.

Extensive research conducted on reflexology demonstrates its efficacy in helping to alleviate a wide variety of health concerns, including upper respiratory tract infections, chronic constipation, insomnia and headaches. The major benefits are relief from stress and anxiety and improved circulation. Adherents believe that regular sessions also will prevent illness. Although reflexologists never diagnose, they may observe points of discomfort that indicate an imbalance in a corresponding part of the body.

Even individuals who are in relatively good health and do not feel particularly stressed are likely to experience a satisfying sense of calm and renewed vitality and awareness after a reflexology treatment. These effects often result in an improved mental attitude, increased productivity and creative thinking. Indeed, some companies have begun to offer reflexology in the workplace as a means to reduce illness and absenteeism.

Is it suitable for everyone?

For those who may be uncomfortable with a full-body massage, reflexology is ideal as only the feet are exposed and touched. As a complement to other forms of treatment, the technique is very safe and may provide relief to a full range of acute and chronic ailments to almost anyone at any age.

If you suffer from any of the medical conditions listed below, you are advised to consult your doctor before considering a reflexology treatment. If your doctor gives you the go ahead, you should also alert your reflexologist to your condition as he or she will need to avoid applying pressure to certain points in the feet.

Pregnant women should be aware that certain evidence suggests that over-stimulating the feet may induce uterine contractions.

What happens during a treatment?

During your initial visit, the practitioner will discuss any health concerns you may have. He or she will then ask you to remove socks and shoes. (As a general courtesy, you should always arrive to the session with clean feet!) Light oil or powder may then be rubbed into the feet, although some practitioners may use none. Occasionally, the hands also may be worked on.

While you relax on a padded chair or on plinth, the practitioner will systematically work on each foot. Finger and thumb pressure is applied at different depths and durations over the various zones of the feet. Through compressing the bottoms, sides and tops of the feet, as well as the ankles, the practitioner can gauge which areas particularly require attention. The practitioner is trained to remain within your parameters of resistance and comfort throughout the session.

The gentle and calming treatments normally last between 20 and 60 minutes depending on your needs. After a treatment most people typically feel calm and refreshed.

How do I find a practitioner?

As with many other forms of complementary medicine in Ireland, no formal licensing procedures or state registration is yet in place for practitioners of reflexology. Always ensure that the therapist is professionally qualified and ascertain their level of experience.

Author

Jenifer Miller, Features writer and columnist The Irish Times, The Irish Examiner, Technology Ireland, The Dubliner, Image and Health and Living. Author of Healthy Gateways & Healing Centres in Ireland and Healing Centres and Retreats.

Links