How does Reflexology works ?

By Diane Wiebe.

Reflexology is a natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the:

•         Feet
•         Hand
•         Ears

which correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body.

 Through application of pressure on these reflexes, reflexology

•         relieves tension
•         improves circulation
•         helps promote the natural function of all body parts and systems and the related areas of the body.

One of the benefits of reflexology is that there are no side effects.

 Reflexology is a drugless therapy. Practitioners do not diagnose, prescribe or treat for any specific conditions.  Reflexology is hands‑on and no instruments are used. Studies demonstrate the added value that hands‑on therapy provides. As a result of the stimuli of alternating pressure on the feet, when applied properly and sufficiently, the body becomes healthier. Blockages are removed which restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. As the body’s overall wellness improves, many people will notice that their symptoms, aches and pains will disappear.

It is the alternating pressure of reflexology that enables the body to relax and shift to a state of being open to healing, which takes place during relaxation. Eunice Ingham, considered to be one of the modern North American founders of reflexology, originally experimented with a constant pressure on the feet. She would work the feet, looking for sensitive spots. Ingham applied wads of cotton to these spots, but found that it over stimulated the reflex area. She found that the on and off pressure of reflexology was much more beneficial. This can be explained by what is known as the Gateway Control Theory whereby the nervous system can only respond to a limited amount of sensory information at one time.

 Over a hundred books on reflexology - from small paperbacks to extensive manuals - exist. A variety of courses are offered on reflexology. Some are geared toward the pleasure of doing friends and family and some are meant for those serious about the benefits of reflexology and the use of reflexology in a work setting.

Written by Diane Wiebe,

Certified RAC Reflexologist, Kelowna BC

You might want to check out OKinHealth`s Reflexology Page

and some websites:

Canada www.reflexologycanada.ca

Australia www.reflexology.org.au

Great Britain http://www.aor.org.uk