REFLEXOLOGY
Historically, the use of reflexology dates back to ancient China, Egypt, and Greece. However, it wasn't introduced to Western civilizations until the twentieth century, when a doctor named William Fitzgerald first introduced it to the West. He referred to this type of treatment as zone therapy. The Chinese developed the technique of acupressure and acupuncture thousands of years ago. Thumb and needles were used on a series of points along lines of energy throughout the body, to help unblock the energy and thus let the body heal itself. Therefore, providing the knowledge that the energy zones run throughout the body and reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all the major organs, glands and body parts.
Remember your feet are a mini map of your entire body
A reflexology treatment typically lasts for 40-45 minutes. During this time, a reflexologist uses his or her hands, especially the thumbs, to apply pressure to the feet. To help unblock the energy and thus let the body heal itself. The amount and location of the pressure, as well as the effect of the treatment, is said to depend on the unique needs of each individual. It can be used as part of a holistic plan to promote health and well-being in an individual.
Modern reflexology offers tremendous health benefits:
- Respiratory Problems
- Neck Problems
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Insomnia
- Migraines/headaches
- Improves Circulation
- Allergies
- Knee Problems
- Muscle Tension
- PMS/Hormonal Problems
- Sinusitis
- Stress Disorders
- Thyroid Imbalance
- Arthritis
- Asthma
- Back Problems
- Blood Pressure
- Bowel Disorders
- Constipation
- Frozen Shoulder
- Hay Fever
- Eczema
- Gynaecological Disorders
As with all forms of healing, a person must take responsibility for his/her own healing process, which includes a balance of body, mind and spirit.
People of all ages may benefit from reflexology treatment. While some individuals may choose to enjoy the therapy on an occasional basis, many choose to receive such treatments regularly. Many individuals who seek regular treatments believe doing so helps them to maintain their health and well-being. Reflexology is a type of therapy that involves the massaging of the feet to treat and heal an individual's entire body. It is said to be a gentle type of therapy, used to restore the body's natural balance as well as to help maintain its equilibrium. Sometimes, reflexology involves the hands and ears as well as the feet. In most cases, however, only the feet are involved.
Reflexology is not just recognized by those interested in alternative treatments and therapies. Many medical doctors and other health care professionals also recognize it as an effective therapeutic treatment. Some recommend it to their patients as a supplement to medical care.
Perhaps one of the most important uses of reflexology is for stress relief. In today's world, individuals are faced with ever-increasing levels of physical, mental, and emotional stress. Reflexology therapy can act as an effective tool in relaxing the body, mind, relieving stress, and helping to restore a general feeling of well-being.
