What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a therapeutic treatment and provides an excellent way of releasing tension and stress. The aim of this treatment is to encourage a sense of deep relaxation and stimulate the body’s own healing processes which could help to return to a state of balance and wellbeing.

A reflexology treatment is a natural, non-invasive holistic therapy where a light to medium pressure is applied to areas of the feet, hands or face. There are reflex points on the feet, face and hands which relate to organs, glands and structures of the whole body.

The reflexologist stimulates these reflex areas using thumbs and fingers which helps to promote a sense of deep relaxation, release areas of tension and can help energy to flow more freely throughout your body.

This light to medium pressure reflexology can appeal to all ages, adults and children alike benefit from this therapeutic treatment and is often used to support those suffering from a specific complaint or with pre-existing conditions.

history and theory of reflexology

Evidence of Reflexology foot therapy dates back thousands of years to Ancient Egypt and has been practiced for over 5000 years in many cultures. It is based on the principle that all parts of the body are connected by energy pathways, zones or meridians which end in the hands, feet and head.  

Dr. William Fitzgerald introduced reflexology into the western world, following his research into reflexology in 1917 he found there are 10 zones running through the body from feet to your hands.  Fitzgerald discovered when there is an imbalance the body’s corresponding energy channels become blocked, preventing it to function optimally. His theory suggested by applying pressure within these zones could be a way of clearing these blockages and therefore allowing energy to flow freely again. This therefore, could create a natural equilbiruim and bring the body into a state of homeoststis and good health. He believed this treatment could provide an analgesic effect on parts of the body and many complaints as well as pain could be alleviated.  

An American Physiotherapist Eunice Ingham in the 1930’s continued on from this research and discovered how individual organs, muscles and body systems within these zones could be treated specifically.  This is Reflexology, as we know it today.  See zone foot hand and foot map below.  

Research is on going and reflexology has made positive findings and advance techniques have been developed over the years.  Please see the research section for further information on for its use with specific clients groups and ailments.  

Effectiveness of Reflexology

As a reflexologist I do not claim to diagnose, prescribe or cure and reflexology should not replace standard medical care. However, it can be extremely beneficial in alleviating some symptoms and helping the body to restore to a state of natural balance. 

Many medical institutions around the world are now adopting reflexology into their care programs, reflexologists are now being employed for palliative care and oncology units.  

We as reflexologists cannot use medical terminology to explain the effectiveness of treatments but research studies are continuing in the US and around the world which have shown some evidence to the benefits it may bring, particularly in enhancing relaxation, reducing pain and has a positive effect on reducing psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety. 

To find out more about current research into the effectiveness of reflexology 

benefits of reflexology

• Induce a sense of deep relaxation and a sense of calm

• Reducing stress and releasing tension

• Increased energy and rejuvenation

• Encourage sleep and a sense of well-being

• Boost circulation

• Balance hormones and stabilise emotions

• Support the immune and lymphatic system

• Detoxification

• Beneficial post-operative recovery and pain reduction

  
  

conditions that may be helped

• Stress, anxiety and depression

• Fertility, pregnancy, birth and postnatal recovery

• Migraines

• Sleep disorders

• Hormonal imbalances, PMT, menopause

• Digestive problems

• Compliment cancer care for pain, nausea and anxiety