REFLEXOLOGY - What is it?

The question I am asked the most is what is REFLEXOLOGY??

It is hard to list the benefits of reflexology in a short answer. A simple answer, reflexology is a non-invasive therapy that triggers healing and relaxation of the whole body.

Most reflexology is done to the feet but works on the hands and ears as well. All the vital organs are mapped out to correspond with presses on those areas of feet/hands.

The theory behind reflexology is the organs, nerves, glands and other parts of the body are connected to reflex points on your feet and hands. By stimulating these areas with presses and massage, a direct response is sent to the body part. For example, I gave a 10-minute session to a skeptic that had been congested for a few days. I applied my technique to the toes and upper foot which correspond to the head, sinuses, ears, and eyes.

The skeptic felt the drainage begin within a few minutes and lasted for several hours. I saw them again the next day and performed a short session again and their congestion cleared completely. Reflexology is not used to diagnose, or as a medical treatment but it is used to facilitate healing within the body.

This person did not want to use medication for congestion due to side effects but with 2 short treatments got relief and is now a client that gets a whole treatment once a month.

HISTORY and ROOTS of REFLEXOLOGY

The oldest documentation depicting the practice of reflexology was discovered in the tomb of an Egyptian physician called Ankmahor dating back to 2500BC. A physician would work with a reflexologist to develop a treatment plan that focused on prevention as well as healing. This is not a simple foot massage but a specific method with a process that when followed aids the entire body to have a response.

WHAT TO EXPECT

I will have you fill out a history form to highlight areas of the body that are causing you problems as well as conditions for which you are using medication to regulate. Upon review of the history sheet, I will create a specific map for you. I will cover all areas as taught by the Ingham Method and then go back and give special attention to areas that would benefit you the most. Most people need extra attention to the adrenal glands, thyroid, and pituitary glands. After your feet, I will begin a reflexology session on both hands. I wash your feet at the beginning and apply a rich foot cream at the end. This will take an hour.

WHAT MY CLIENTS ARE SAYING

The comment I hear most is how relaxed they are and areas of pain feel better. My repeat clients talk about how well they slept the night of a session. One diabetic client noticed her blood sugar numbers are better and stay better the following day. Again, I emphasize reflexology is not a replacement for medical treatment, but there are well-documented studies of how beneficial it is. At the very least getting a release from chronic stress does the body good and teaches us what it feels like to be relaxed and in balance with all of our hormones and body organs.

SCIENCE OF REFLEXOLOGY

Reflexology can find a sensitive area that corresponds with a current problem or trauma from an old injury. (Think old back and knee injuries) At the most basic level, reflexology will improve your circulation.

Think of areas that have restricted blood flow, sluggish circulation, and lymphatic drainage. When blood flow improves so does oxygen to the whole body. Increased circulation means energy is improved as waste products are removed. When circulation improves skin-related conditions get better. Increased absorption and distribution of vitamins and minerals promote healthy bones, joints, and muscles. When blood is sluggish a clot could form leading to a heart attack, stroke, or high blood pressure.

When systems are moving/circulating, waste is being removed from the small bowel and colon. Many clients report “movement” after a session of reflexology. Reflexology also opens the neural pathways that control stress which in turn creates a more relaxed state with less pain due to high endorphins that act as a pain killer. Hormone levels are distributed and balanced due to the work of the endocrine system that controls stress levels and stabilizes moods and well as helps control eating habits.

Reflexology boosts the lymphatic system which helps fight disease and illness. Working on the lung region of the feet increases the quantity of air we take in. Pushing on the solar plexus while inhaling causes instant relaxation.

We do this at the beginning of each session. Pressing on the kidneys can aid in the removal of waste and sodium thus reducing water retention and edema. The list is long but I am sure you read something in this paragraph you would like to improve.

Give reflexology a try. I can come to your house or you can meet me at Radiance Spa for a truly indulgent atmosphere. Call me and set up an appointment at your home or call the Spa.

Yoga Mom Kimberly 920-843-0832 $60/hour appointment

Radiance Spa 920-558-3120 $85/hour appointment