Fact Sheet 10

Reflexology

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works on the feet or hands enabling the body to heal itself. The theory is that following illness, stress, injury or disease, the body is in a state of "imbalance", and that vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology may be used to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.

A Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained hands may detect imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points the Reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination might be improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.

Whilst the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as 'zone therapy'. He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930's Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.

Recent research from Japan has started to shed light on the ideas behind reflexology for further information please read the article that appeared in Reflexions March 2009. click link

Reflexology is complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms. It is not however an alternative to seeking medical advice or attention.

How can Reflexology help me?

Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexology has anecdotally been shown to be effective for:

• Stress-related conditions
• Migraine
• Fertility
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal Imbalances
• and other various problems

There is some scientific research, however mostly there is only one study in any one area and this is not currently accepted as sufficient evidence of effectiveness.

Reflexologists do not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe. Each session of reflexology works on an individual basis.

Who can benefit from reflexology?

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. After having completed a course of reflexology treatments for a specific condition, many people find it beneficial to continue to have occasional treatments to maintain health and well-being. Many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, some doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognise reflexology as a well established, respected and effective therapy. With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important for people take more responsibility for their own health care needs.

Reflexology may help people to cope on a physical mental and emotional level thereby encouraging healing and maintainance in all areas of life. BUT Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice.

What happens when I go for a treatment?

On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle. The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy are unique to each person. A professionally trained reflexologist may detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body. A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body's needs.

How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?

After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is part of the healing process. This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailior a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Reflexology also promotes deep relaxation and a sense of calm and well-being. It is particularly helpful in stress-related conditions. Indeed, it is widely recognised that stress contributes to 75% of all disease and illness.

Reflexology in Pregnancy

A woman's body goes through the most amazing physical, emotional and hormonal changes during pregnancy. Reflexology is a gentle therapy which can be used safely during pregnancy to support a woman through the process and at the same time, can help to relieve the many discomforts of pregnancy.

Maternity reflexology differs from normal reflexology treatment in several ways. Firstly treatments are generally shoprter to avoid the discomfort of being in one position for too long.

Treatment techniques are tailored to each particular stage of pregnancy, but all treatments focus on relieving any discomforts or minor ailments and on encouraging balance within the endocrine system. This is the system responsible for all the hormonal changes that occur in pregnancy, which gives rise to a whole range of physical and emotional responses. Treatments also focus on relaxing and calming techniques for mother and baby. To aim throughout is to optimise the health potential of the mother.

Reflexology should never to regarded as a substitute for proper medical and obstetric care, and if you do decide to have reflexology, it is always helpful to let your midwife know you are receiving reflexology.

Some studies have shown that a course of reflexology helps a woman to have a better pregnancy and may shorten labour.( 'The Magic of reflexology in pregnancy' by Dr. Gowrie Motha, reflexions dec 1994)

Once your due date has been reached and with the permission of your maternity caregoivers, priming of labour can be done to gently encourage the baby to begin birthing. This treatment involves a combination of reflexology and acupressure points. Suzanne Enzer is a well respected trainer of midwives and reflexologists, in the techniques of maternity refelxology. In her words, "the agony and ecstasy of birthing can leave a woman feeling jubilant, sore, sick, full of disbelief and wonder and many other conflicting emotions and feelings."   A post-ntal refelxology treatment is not only very relaxing, but can also be helped in encouraging the body's own healing and rebalancing the hormones and emotions. The optimum time for this is the first or third day after the birth. There are of course numerous demands at this time - baby, husband, children, visitors, midwives. However a treatment a this time may be very beneficial both physically and emotionally.

Thank you to Wendy Gaen M.A.R for helping write this article for more about Wendy visit her site www.gaenreflexology.co.uk

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information given in this leaflet is accurate, not every treatment will be suitable or effective for every person. All content within Pure and Gentle SkinCare is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor or any other health care professional. Pure and Gentle SkinCare is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made by a user based on the content of Pure and Gentle SkinCare website or advisers.  Always consult your own GP if you're in any way concerned about your health as he or she will be able to advise in greater detail.