What is it?
Reflexology has been described as pressure point massage or compression technique used on the feet and sometimes the hands and face. Gentle yet effective in nature, it is often shrouded in mystery but it’s really very simple and has its roots in zone therapy.
Zone therapy was developed by Dr William Fitzgerald who mapped out ten longitudinal zones in the body, finding that compression in one part of the zone had an analgesic effect in the entirety of the zone. This idea was inspired by Native Americans whom Fitzgerald observed using foot treatments, however the history of foot treatment can be traced back to 5000 BC in India to 4000BC in China, where the Yellow Emperor documented its use.
Since the discovery of zone therapy various professionals have added to and developed this technique which is known today as reflexology. Just as Acupuncture and Shiatsu it works to balance and strengthen the flow of energy that runs through zones or meridians throughout the body. More specifically, in reflexology there are 10 longitudinal zones running widthways across the body, with organs, musculature and glands being mapped out. Just like Fitzgerald’s original theory, pressure in one part affects the entire zone. The curve of the foot corresponds to the curve of the spine; the narrowest point of the foot corresponds to the waist line.
How does it work?
While we cannot say precisely how reflexology works there are many theories outlined below.
Fitzgerald described the analgesic, relaxation and nerve blocking effects of reflexology. This has since been explained as gate control theory which works by pain impulse being suppressed due to touch impulse reaching the brain first, effectively ‘shutting the gate’. TENS machines work in the same way.
Nerve impulse theory states that pressure applied to the feet, which are particularly sensitive due to the thousands of nerve impulses present, sends an impulse to spinal cord and brain. This is combined with the motor impulse as in a reflex action e.g. knee jerk reflex. Reflexology may thus have a direct effect on the muscles.
Meridian theory suggests that subtle energy or Qi is disrupted by disease, stress or pain and can lead to excessive or inadequate energy. Reflexology unblocks, stimulates or sedates and therefore balances energy. It must be noted however that only some reflexology points correspond to meridians.
Reflexology and other touch therapies i.e. skin-to-skin are known to stimulate the release of endorphins and encephalins which act as the body’s natural pain relievers and mood enhances, creating a sense of well-being. This list is not exhaustive, there are many other contemporary however controversial theories on the mechanisms of reflexology, but the above gives an indicator of just how it manages to be effective.
How can it help me?
While many of us have experienced a multitude of benefits from reflexology there is still a lack of research although some positive results have been obtained. Therefore we can say that reflexology: helps relax; improves mood; aids sleep; helps relieve tension and improves a sense of well-being.
Anecdotal Evidence
Areas in which San has had a successful positive response with reflexology include: stress management; sleep improvement; low mood; chronic fatigue; energy levels; pain management; immune boosting.
The stress response can have a particularly detrimental effect due to high levels of the hormone cortisol. Research has shown that prolonged exposure can lead to inhibited immune response, muscle wastage, digestive disorders and poor memory recall.
By bringing about a deep relaxation the stress response is effectively turned off which in turn allows for the whole body to function more efficiently. As a holistic therapy, reflexology focuses on all aspects of each individual, looking for areas where positive lifestyle changes can be undertaken to create lasting results.
What to expect
Treatments usually last an hour; however this time can be increased or reduced depending upon your preferences. During your initial treatment a consultation will be taken looking into medical history and all other aspects of lifestyle where positive change may be made. This not only ensures that the treatment is suitable for you it means positive effects long after the treatment is over. During this time you are treated to a foot soak in heated basalt stones if you so wish. Some people may feel comfortable closing their eyes for deeper relaxation, some may wish to talk during their treatment – the sessions are led by you.
One concern clients have is they’re afraid reflexology will feel ticklish – this is not true! A trained reflexologist’s touch will feel firm and my touch ranges from light to deep depending on your preference but it is never ticklish. The idea is comfort and relaxation not tension!
If you have any questions or concerns, or to book an appointment please contact us
01603 665173
reception@ holistic-care.com
