Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is an alternative medical practice involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet, ears, and hands. This is done using thumb, finger, and hand massage techniques without oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands, with the premise that such work on the feet and hands causes a physical change to the supposedly related areas of the body.
Reflexology is effective in some medical conditions, such as pain treatment, but research is ongoing. The practice can promote deep relaxation and well-being, reducing stress and building resilience. Reflexology can be used safely alongside standard healthcare to promote better health for clients.
Historical Background
Reflexology is an ancient practice originating from Egypt, India, and China. It made its way to the Western world thanks to Dr. William Fitzgerald’s pioneering work in the early 1900s. He introduced “Zone therapy,” which emphasised the connection between reflex areas on the hands and feet and various body organs and regions within the same zone.
Building upon Fitzgerald’s foundation, Eunice Ingham played a pivotal role in refining and popularising reflexology during the 1930s. Ingham believed that congestion or tension in specific areas of the foot reflects similar conditions in corresponding body parts. Her contributions have shaped the modern understanding and practice of reflexology.
How Reflexology Works
Reflexology is the application of appropriate pressure to specific points and areas on the feet, hands, or ears. Reflexologists believe that these reflex points correspond to different body organs and systems and that pressing them creates real benefits for the person's health.
For example, reflexology holds that a specific spot in the foot's arch corresponds to the bladder. When a reflexologist uses thumbs or fingers to apply appropriate pressure to this area, it may affect bladder functioning.
Reflexology Foot Maps
Reflexologists use footmaps to guide their work. The left foot corresponds to the organs found on the left side of the body, and the right foot corresponds to the organs on the right side. These maps help reflexologists target specific areas for therapeutic purposes.
Comparing Reflexology to Other Therapies
Many people confuse reflexology with massage, Reiki, or acupuncture, but there are essential differences between these therapies:
- Massage: Massage therapists manipulate more significant areas of soft tissue in the body, while reflexologists apply pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, and ears.
- Reiki: Unlike either massage or reflexology, Reiki does not involve physical manipulation or pressure but instead uses light touch to work with the subtle vibrational field thought to surround the body.
- Acupuncture: While acupuncture and acupressure, like reflexology, use reflex points on the body to influence other body parts, the points are not the same, and acupuncture uses points over the entire body.
While these are different practices entirely, one thing they all have in common is that they are sometimes used to help manage symptoms associated with stress.
What Does Reflexology Do?
Although reflexology is not used to diagnose or cure disease, millions of people around the world use it to complement other treatments when addressing conditions like anxiety, asthma, cancer treatment, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, headaches, kidney function, PMS, and sinusitis.
References:
- Wikipedia
- Association of Reflexologists
- University of Minnesota: Taking Charge of Your Health & Wellbeing
Author: Martha Anderson
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