Reflexology
Reflexology is the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hand with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with a premise that such work effects a physical change to the body.
In general terms the benefits of reflexology have to do with the reduction of stress. Because the feet and hands help set the tension level for the rest of the body they are an easy way to interrupt the stress signal and reset homeostasis, the body's equilibrium.
Benefits
As a complement to standard medical care. The benefits of reflexology are
- Relaxation
- Pain reduction
- Amelioration of symptoms for health concerns
- Rejuvenation of tired feet
- Improvement in blood flow
- Impact on physiological measures (e.g. blood pressure and cholesterol; measurements by ECG, EEG, and fMRI)
- Beneficial for post-operative recovery and pain reduction
- Enhancement of medical care(e.g. cancer, phantom limb pain, and hemodialysis patients)
- Adjunct to mental health care(e.g. depression, anxiety, Post traumatic stress disorder)
- Complement to cancer care (pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety)
- Easier birthing/delivery/post-partum recovery
Treatment
Reflexology sessions in general last from 30 minutes to an hour and may involve either a chair or table, which ever is more comfortable for client and practitioner.
Reflexologists use pressure, stretch and movement to work through the foot methodically. Technique is applied to the whole foot. Too much pressure can actually be harmful and could lead to injury. But personal preference is something you should communicate as you should always have your wishes respected.
Assessment takes place as stress cues are evaluated. Stress cues are parts of the foot or hand that shows adaptation to stress. The assessment of such stress cues allows the reflexologist to target areas and design a session of pressure technique applications appropriate to the individual.
As in massage, you will feel relaxation at the end of a session. How long that relaxation lasts is a good indicator of the effectiveness of the therapy. Being involved matters and communication is key. If you are sore, unsteady or get flu-like symptoms after leaving the office this may indicate a strong release of toxins. Please keep your practitioner informed of anything out of the ordinary.
Research
There are many studies on reflexology. Here is one of my favorites; Reflexology treatment relieves symptoms of multiple sclerosis: a randomized controlled study
And another; The Effects of Foot Reflexology on Anxiety and Pain in Patients With Breast and Lung Cancer
Personal History and Background
My introduction to this therapy actually came from my paternal grandmother. Helen was very much involved in all the new "forward-thinking" modalities (though reflexology is by no means new, during the 70's it was gaining exposure in the West). She taught me all the techniques she learned and would make absolutely sure I was paying attention when she gave all of us sessions. After all, once all that work was over, it was her turn!
Going through high school, this is the only modality I shared. Discussing herbal remedies or the laying on of hands wasn't exactly teenager talk (at least not in the 80's), but when I gave friends hand massages or pressed points on their feet that made them feel better, I started getting requests. It got to the point that whenever friends who knew me well found an empty seat beside me, I found a ready palm or foot in my lap!
I continued on reading books and perfecting my own techniques through my early twenties till I read about an actual certification course and was granted the title of Reflexologist in 1987 through the Institute of Holistic Arts in Winter Park, Fl.
