For many years I have been an enthusiastic devotee of Reflexology and can testify to its healing qualities. I incorporated it into my practice a decade ago and never ceased to be amazed at how many people find it beneficial.
Reflexology is a method for activating the healing powers of the body. It is both old and new. From ancient texts and illustrations we know that the early Chinese, Japanese, Indians and Egyptians worked on the feet to promote good health. Today many of these same techniques have been developed into a modern method called Reflexology. What joins the ancients and moderns is a long established principle that there are energy zones that run throughout the body and reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all the major organs, glands and body parts. In the early twentieth century many doctors, neurologists and physiotherapists have recognised that applying pressure to specific areas of the feet can induce a positive reaction in the related part of the body.
There are some important biological and anatomical reasons for working with the feet.
They are farthest from the heart, where circulation tends to stagnate. People with chronically poor circulation often have tender or swollen hands and feet. It is good to stimulate and encourage blood flow to these extremities. Gravity also pulls toxins downwards. Inorganic waste materials such as uric acid and calcium crystals can build up in the bottoms of the feet. An experienced reflexologist can feel these deposits with his or her hands and break up these crystals with reflexology techniques. Kneading and massaging the feet during a reflexology session can break up with deposits and improve circulation.Numbness in the toes and feet can be alleviated with attention.
The feet ground us, mentally and figuratively. They are our contact with the earth and the energies that flow through it. They are our base and foundation. A steady foot means stability and security. Reflexologists are in accordance with other methods of healing such as Acupuncture and
Shiatsu, recognising the energy flows in zones or meridians throughout the body. These channels run through the body and when stimulated these pathways are opened up, allowing the subtle energy that accompanies neurological and circulatory functioning to do its work.
Good health depends on balance, equilibrium and natural functioning of all the body systems – we call this homeostasis. Excessive stress disrupts this balance. Reflexology alleviates the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation, placing us in a 'safe place' and allowing the nervous system to calm down and function normally. The body, mind and spirit are brought back into balance. Harmony is restored.
If you would like to learn a more about Reflexology contact: Sandra Costello, qualified Reflexology Practioner I.T.E.C.
