All About Reflexology Part 1 of the Reflexology Presentations

History of Reflexology Reflexology evidence dates back to at least 2500 BC in ancient Egypt. It was also known to China and Europe. Reflexology works on the basis that the body is mapped out on the whole foot, including the dorsal area and side areas. Dr.William Fitzgerald and Eunice Bingham both discovered Zone Therapy. Dr.W Fitzgerald discovered zone therapy during his work as the head of the Nose and Throat department in Connecticut. Eunice Bingham took zone therapy much further and mapped out the whole of the body.

What is Reflexology? Reflexology is a treatment method for activating the body’s healing powers. It is performed on the feet using specific manipulations and pressure giving the client both emotional and physical benefits. Reflexology is based on the principle that there are ten longitudinal reflex zones, five on each foot, linking energy paths and mapping out all corresponding body parts and organs. Also that there are four transverse zones, sectioning the body into four main areas. During the treatment whereby stimulation takes place, toxins are moved along these pathways, and are then eliminated from the body via various systems.

How does Reflexology work? Reflexology works by balancing the body systems via the energy pathways which circulate throughout the body. This energy flow is also known as the ‘Chi’ or ‘Qi’. The body’s balance is also known as the ‘Equilibrium’. If the energy flow is impeded in any way then the energy flow will become out of balance causing problems in various areas within the body. Once the blockages have been treated, then the body will regain it’s state of ‘Equilibrium’. Reflexology can also be used as a preventative method of health care, preventing problems arising.

Why Reflexology on the feet? If we work on the theory that the feet are divided into to ten zones, five on each foot, the feet become a mirror image of the body including the spine. Reflexology can also be performed on the hands and ears but as the foot has the largest surface area, reflex points are easier to work on. Other main advantages to working on the feet is that some clients do not feel it is so personal towards them, that there is that little bit of space between the Reflexologist and the client. This can allow some clients to relax more, also the feet are very receptive to touch.

What Reflexology is Not Reflexology is neither a medical treatment or a foot massage. Reflexologists cannot ‘diagnose’ or state that they can ‘cure’. Reflexology can help to rebalance the body and alleviate symptoms, but the client must never be led to believe that they will be cured after a reflexology treatment. Only a licensed physician can diagnose and practice medicine. The reflexologist is a channel for healing, the specific techniques and the applying of pressure creates the channels for the healing to take place.

Quiz How many zones are found on each foot? A- 4, B-6, C-5 How many transverse zones are there sectioning the body? A-3, B-5, C-4 Does reflexology cure headaches? A-yes B-no What date does reflexology go back to? A-1300AD, B-2500BC What were the names of the people who discovered zone therapy? A- Dr.T.Fitzgerald B- Dr.W.Fitzgerald C- Eunice Bingham D- Ellen Bingham Answers can be found in section 7.