Reflexology is an art and science that is based on the principle that there are minimaps of the entire body mirrored on the feet, hands and ears. Pressure applied to specific points on these minimaps helps to create balance within the body, soothing the nervous system, improving circulation and reducing stress.
It is a science as it requires careful study, practice, a sound knowledge of techniques, anatomy and physiology, pathology and skill, but is also an art as the reflexologist has to work with focused intention, dedication, patience and loving care.
Reflexologists use a holistic approach to healthcare. They do not diagnose or treat for a specific illness but regular sessions help to create optimum conditions to allow the body the best chance of healing itself naturally. Acute conditions may improve with one or two sessions but more chronic conditions will take your body longer to heal.
Benefits of reflexology:
Stress reduction
Deep relaxation
Increased energy
Pain reduction or elimination
Improved circulation
Healthy internal balance
Natural detoxification
Although there is no exact historical record, the earliest evidence of reflexology dates back to early Egypt in the form of a pictograph in the tomb of a medical doctor, second to the king, around 5,00o years ago. From here the knowledge of reflexology traveled to Greece, Arabia and Europe through the Roman Empire. In the east the history can be traced from India to China and then onto Japan.
In 1917 William H. Fitzgerald M.D. an ear, nose and throat specialist in the United States developed vertical zone theory of the human body and proved that applying pressure on a specific area on one part of the feet or hands had an anesthetic effect on another area in the body. In 1924 Joe Shelby Riley MD further developed this theory by dividing the vertical zones into horizontal zones, his work also included the ear.
Foot and Hand Reflexology was further developed by Eunice D. Ingham, a nurse and physiotherapist who worked with Joe Shelby Riley, in the 1930s and 1940s. Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and then mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology.
Although some reflex points on the outer ear were known in Ancient China, Ancient Mediterranean countries as well as in the Dark and Middle Ages of Europe it was not until 1957 that a map representing the human body was discovered in the outer ear by another MD - Dr Paul Nogier in France. This map was generally verified in China in 1959 - discovering some differences but may similarities and has been used for Acupuncture and Acupressure since this time.
