1. What is Reflexology Susie Morrissey M.I.R.I.L., BCMA Aff., PRM
Tipperary School of Classical Reflexology

2. Definition of Reflexology
“Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body and by applying specific pressure to these reflexes using the thumbs and fingers, the body returns to homeostasis or in simple terms, brings the body back into balance.”
Definition of Reflexology

3. What is Reflexology? Natural, healing, complementary therapy
Based on principle of reflexes in the hands and feet
Involves applying pressure to the feet
Uses specific thumb, finger and hand techniques
Restores a natural state of homeostasis
Relieves tension, improves circulation and promotes natural function
Reflexology is not a medical treatment
Reflexology is not a massage

4. History of Reflexology:
There is evidence of some form of foot and hand therapy being practiced in China as long ago as 2330 B.C. and also at the same time in Egypt, as depicted in the tomb of Ankmahor.
The North American tribes of Indians are known to have practiced a form of foot therapy for hundreds of years.
There are many theories about the true origin of this powerful therapy, sufficient to say that it has stood the test of time and has helped thousands of people to better health.
The dictionary definition of a ‘Reflex’ is ‘an involuntary or instinctive movement in response to a stimulus’ or in the sense of reflection or mirror image.
The reflexes on our feet and hands act as mirror images of the body.
History of Reflexology:

5. History of Reflexology
Dr William Fitzgerald introduced reflexology to the west in 1913
Divided the body into ten equal zones ending in the fingers and toes
Experimented with different ways to apply pressure:
Using fingers and thumbs
Attaching pegs and clamps
Metal comb
Developed Zone Therapy
History of Reflexology

6. History of Reflexology
Dr Edwin Bowers was a colleague of Dr Fitzgerald
Brought zone therapy into the public eye in 1915
Published an article called “To stop that toothache, squeeze your toe”
Co-published a book called “Zone Therapy” in 1917 with Fitzgerald
Dr Joseph Riley and his wife Elizabeth developed the therapy further
Researched the therapy further
Used it in their chiropractic school in Washington
History of Reflexology

7. History of Reflexology
Eunice Ingham was a physiotherapist at the school of chiropractic in Washington
Developed predecessors work further
Found some areas were more accessible, sensitive and thus responsive
Concentrated on the feet
Recognised all nerves end in the feet, unlike the hands
Experimented how pressure on one point of the foot affected the rest of the body
Made a chart of the whole body on the foot
Published two books: “Stories the feet can tell” and “Stories the feet have told”
History of Reflexology

8. History of Reflexology
Reflexology spread to Europe in 1960’s
Doreen Bayly set up first UK school in 1968
The Bayly School of Reflexology began teaching in Ireland in 1980’s
Anthony Larkin was among the first group of graduates
In 1985, Larkin along with 5 other graduated formed the Society of Reflexologists of Ireland.
History of Reflexology

9. Types of Reflexology Classical Reflexology (Hand & Foot)
Facial Reflexology (Sorenson/Bergman Method)
Ear Reflexology
Body Reflexology
Reflexology Lymphatic Drainage
Tongue Reflexology
Nerve Reflexology
Orthopaedic Reflexology
& Lots more …
Types of Reflexology

10. What Reflexologists do not do:
As Reflexologists, we must never:
Claim to Cure
Diagnose
Prescribe
Reflexologists do not treat specific conditions
What Reflexologists do not do:

11. Contra-Indications to Reflexology
Reflexology is very safe and is allowed in almost all areas.
If in doubt or you don’t feel confident, don’t treat
If there is a current of suspected blood clot.
Contagious disease or infection
Gangrene
Any obvious trauma or damage to the foot
Unexplained internal bleeding – refer back to GP
Brittle bones or conditions (including injuries) affecting foot flexibility
Caution to be exercised in early pregnancy
If you are unable to treat the feet, work the hands or the referral area as an alternative.
Contra-Indications to Reflexology