Reflexology is the fastest growing alternative complementary medicine in the world, [ reported by the World Health Organization ]

Reflexology or ‘Sole’ Searching !

History ? Egyptian ?

Cherokee saying “Your feet walk upon the earth and through this, your spirit is connected to the universe”

The ‘Mother’ of modern Reflexology : Eunice Ingham "If you're feeling out of kilter Don't know why or what about Let your feet reveal the answer Find the sore spot work it out” By Eunice D Ingham

"Reflexology is a science based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all glands, organs, parts and systems of the body The physical act of applying specific pressure using the thumb, finger and hand techniques to these reflex areas results in the reduction of stress which promotes physiological changes in the body“ Standard Reflexology Defn:

Shape and curve of foot match sh/curve of body; Liver on one side of body, so only on one foot.

Reflexology is not a diagnostic science; it acts as a preventative healthcare by unblocking energies It balances the entire system. The reflexologist is a channel of healing The laying on of hands and the specific techniques for applying pressure to the feet create the channels of healing energy to circulate to all parts of the body No instruments are used, only the hands

Each foot has over 7,000 nerve endings, 26 bones, 107 ligaments and 19 muscles or muscle insertions

Not just soles of feet

Curve of foot matches spinal curve – claim to have mathemat studies of exactness of this match

Intentions of / Claims for Reflexology R’s believe 85% of all diseases traceable to stress Enhances + outlook Expels suppressed emotions of distress Relaxing via endorphin release Enhances immune system thru improving lymph flow Decreases the N of free radicals Improves circulation More frequent bowel evac and urination

What happens in treatment

What happens in visit to R Cannot diagnose disease Use lounge chair & sterilize feet Examine feet for temp, colour, skin irritation, corns, calluses etc Foot is then ‘reflexed’ w thumb & foref’s mins per visit No known risks to reflexology session(s)

Certification

OCR 5 levels of certification: ~ certified reflexologist ~ professional R ~ Mast of R ~ Professor of Reflexology~ Doctorate in R

Fun with Reflexology Footloose and fancy free Put your best foot forward A walk on the wild side To get a foot in the door Swept off one's feet Get one's feet wet He's a real heel Be out of step To dig one's heels in

Lady Di’s Letters to her Reflexologist !

John Fisher, "Healthy Benefits of Cobblestone-Mat Walking: Preliminary Findings," Journal of Aging and Physical Activity, 11(4), October 2003 “walking on a cobblestone mat surface resulted in significant reductions in blood pressure and improvements in balance and physical performance among adults 60 and over”

Pantai Valley, Malaysia, Cobblestone Walk-path

And in Macau, a “Foot Reflexology” path since 60s

Participants in the study, which was funded by the National Institute on Aging (Grant AG20470), were divided into an experimental group -- the cobblestone mat walkers -- and a control group which took part in conventional walking activities for one hour, three times per week for 16 weeks. At the end of the study, mat walkers were found to have better scores on measures of balance, physical function, and blood pressure than those in the conventional walking group This new physical activity could provide a different choice of physical activity that is therapeutic and health-enhancing and that can be done quickly and easily in the comfort of one's home. The mats are available directly from the Oregon Research Institute in Eugene, Oregon. Please phone for more information

Needs of Reflexology Better and more universal organization Self and Professional regulation Better qualitative and quantitative research support Greater recognition of +tive effects of R on stress reduction