Reflexology
Reflexology is a very ancient form of therapy. The oldest
documentation of people working feet was
unearthed in a tomb in Egypt, dating from around 2500BC. There is also evidence
that some form of foot massage was used by the native people of both North and
South America. There was a form of reflexology practiced in Europe as far back
as the 14th century.
It is believed in reflexology as in acupuncture that there are
meridians (energy lines) running through the body, all of the lines run through
the feet. The Meridians are connected to all of the body's internal organs and
systems - digestive, endocrine etc.
Eunice Ingham is known as the mother of modern reflexology and she
is credited with developing the map of the feet where all reflex points on the
feet correspond to the organs and systems on the body.
When the reflexologist works on the client's feet they used their
thumbs and fingers to massage the different areas or zones on the sides, toes
and tops of the feet up as far as the ankles. The aim is to release any
blockages and balance energy in the meridians and body thus allowing the body
to heal itself.
A
reflexology session usually lasts for 50-60 minutes. The client lies fully
clothed, apart from their feet, on a massage table in a quiet room. A lot of
people drop off to sleep during a session. Reflexology is a great way to
de-stress or detox. It is a good complementary therapy for another treatment a
person is receiving and can help speed up recovery. People suffering from
diabetes should consult their doctor before having a reflexology treatment as
working on the pancreas reflex can affect insulin levels.
Sean Butler – Reflexologist and Reiki Master, in the Dancing Soul.
