Reflexology, sometimes called zone therapy, is an alternative health treatment that utilizes and encourages the body's natural capacity to heal itself, by applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands and ears called reflex points.
For each of the body's parts there is an associated reflex point, and by applying pressure to these points it is believed that the energy, sometimes called Qi from ancient China, is released from blockage to maximize your well-being.
The content of this article is for general information purposes only. It is not meant to replace conventional medical treatment.
History of Reflexology
Reflexology has been identified in hieroglyphic references in a physician's tomb at Saqqara in ancient Egypt, according to the International Institute of Reflexology. While discovered images don't provide a complete understanding of the ancient practice of reflexology, they do provide evidence that foot and hand massage techniques were used. It wasn't until the 19th century, with further research into the nervous system and the body's reflexes, that these historical hieroglyphics began to make sense. While there is no direct evidence to support the ancient practice of reflexology, many cultures throughout history have left indications of the practice of foot and hand treatments.
Reflexology Charts
Reflexology charts identify reflex points on the feet and hands that reflect specific body parts. The positions of the reflex points on the hands and feet are a mirror reflection of their respective positions on the body. Reflex points on the right hand and foot are for the right side of the body and reflex points on the left hand and foot are for the left side of the body. The reflex points for the arms and shoulder run along the outsides of the hands and feet, and the spine reflex zones run down the inside of the feet and hands. The reflex points on fingers and toes are for the head and neck zone and the respective parts in that area, such as nose, mouth, and eyes. The reflex points on the balls of the foot are for the upper back and chest and the organs around that zone of the body. The mid area of the foot reflects the stomach, intestines and internal organs such as the liver and kidneys. An Internet search for a "reflexology chart" is a good way to become familiar with the locations of each reflex point on the hands and feet.
Reflexology Treatment
Reflexology treatments are administered by applying direct physical pressure to the reflex points of the hands and feet with either finger, thumb or hand techniques. No oils or lotions are required in the treatment.
Reflex points that exhibit blockages in energy flow normally feel bruised at best and painful at worst. "Stimulating these reflexes properly can help many health problems in a natural way," according to the website of the Ingham Method, based on the work of Eunice D. Ingham, a physical therapist and one of the pioneers in modern research of the benefits of reflexology.
How theTreatment Works
There are many theories as to how reflexology treatments actually work, with the general consensus being that zones on the feet correspond with a body part and that by applying pressure to respective reflex points, health benefits can be observed. In her book "Stories the Feet Can Tell," Eunice Ingham states that she observed the direct benefits of massaging reflex points in the treatments she administered.
The Benefits of Reflexology
There are many benefits to reflexology treatments, which aim to alleviate stress by maximizing the body's natural healthy function. While reflexology should complement standard medical care, Kevin and Barbara Kunz, practitioners in reflexology, have published some fourteen books on the subject, and their findings identify some of the benefits of reflexology as reduction of stress, increased blood flow, reduced pain, optimization of relaxation, promotion of healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels, relief of depression and anxiety and the rejuvenation of tired feet.
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