Reflexology 101
Complementary therapies can be used in addition to the treatments prescribed by a doctor. There are many different types of complementary therapies and it is important to choose one that fits your needs best. Some of the more common types are; therapeutic touch, reiki, aromatherapy, massage, visualization and mediation. There is another natural healing therapy that is regaining popularity, that has proven over centuries to be not only relaxing but offer tremendous benefits to your health, Reflexology.
Reflexology has been around for thousands
of years. Its origin can be traced back to Ancient China. Hieroglyphics were discovered in Egypt dating
back to 2500 BC. Through the centuries,
reflexology has evolved, from what was first known as zone theory to what is
now known as reflexology. Reflexology is
based on the principal that the body is mirrored on the bottom of the feet and
on the hands. By stimulating with light
to firm pressure on those pressure points and reflexes, positive changes take
place within the corresponding parts, organs and glands of the body. The feet and hands have 1000’s of nerve endings that act as sensory receptors which influence all the systems of the body. By stimulating nerves and specific reflex areas on the feet and/or hands, one can stimulate blood flow and eliminate toxin buildup in the corresponding organs. Reflexology works to put the body in a state of well-being, beneficial to every system of the body.
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and has proven to bring
relief from a wide range of chronic and acute conditions. Foot reflexology treatments are very
beneficial in reducing daily stress and tension. Our society now has a better understanding
between the correlation of stress and disease. We must now actively engage in activities and therapies to manage our stress.
Hand reflexology is ideal to use in self treatment and at times
when foot reflexology is not possible.
Working the hands is a wonderful form of contact and communicating with
each other. Although the hands are not
as sensitive as the feet, it is still effective in bringing about relaxation throughout
the whole body.
Reflexology has four main benefits: relaxation, increased
circulation, reduction of stress and homeostasis (the ability of the body to
heal itself). These four main benefits
can provide relief for such conditions as diabetes, inflammation, insomnia,
digestive issues, constipation, muscle and joint pain and more. It helps reduce
body tension and definitely brings a sense of relaxation. The
body also produces its own natural painkillers,
known as endorphins, which are released during a reflexology treatment.
Reflexologists do not claim to extend the life of their clients,
but assist in the quality of it. Maybe
that will mean a day free of pain for one person or a week of regular bowel
movements, or a good night’s sleep for another. The body is not machine, but similar to machinery our bodies require a regular maintenance program. A Reflexology maintenance program might be planned weekly, bi-weekly, monthly depending on each individuals specific
needs.
This article was provided by Wilson and Reynolds Reflexology and
the Reflexology Training Academy of Canada.
www.wilsonandreynolds.ca www.reflexologytrainingacademy.ca 1-866-491-5566
