Reflexologist Elizabeth Freeman from www.wiltshirereflexology.co.uk is a member of the Association of Reflexologists working near Melksham, Wiltshire. Here she introduces us to this popular complementary therapy.

What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a therapy in which the reflexologist uses their thumbs and fingers to apply pressure to the client’s feet and/or hands. The feet can be thought of as mirroring the body. All organs, systems and glands of the body can be mapped onto areas of the feet called reflex points. A reflexologist knows how to stimulate the reflex points in order to bring about a response in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology works along holistic principles treating your mind, body and spirit rather than a diagnosis or set of symptoms. For instance, if you are suffering from stress, your body is affected as well as your mind. Similarly, a physical illness can be emotionally draining. Reflexology rebalances the whole of your being and so can be more effective than working directly on one part of you.

Ancient history indicates that reflexology was originally practised in Egypt, India and China. An Egyptian wall painting, thought to show men practising reflexology on feet, dates back to around 2330BC. In China, treatment involved using reflexology and acupuncture. Reflexology was used to find energy imbalances and then needles were applied on specific points of the body. In the late 19th century, the first scientific basis for reflexology was discovered in London by Sir Henry Head who was carrying out neurological studies. He discovered areas on the skin that linked with parts of the spine and internal organs.

Eunice Ingham, an American physiotherapist, was the founder of reflexology as we know it today. She discovered that she was able to stimulate and heal other parts of the body by using pressure techniques across the soles of the feet. She made a detailed chart of the reflexes on the feet. In 1938 she wrote, ‘Stores the Feet Can Tell’ and in 1963 she wrote ‘Stories the Feet Have Told’.

How does reflexology work?
Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese belief that energy flows around the body. When the energy can flow freely we are well, balanced and in harmony with our environment physically, mentally and emotionally. If the energy becomes blocked, illness may result, and unblocking this energy restores the energy flow enabling healing to take place. Wherever there is imbalance or illness in the body, the corresponding area in the foot may be tender. Crystal deposits, which can be felt by the reflexologist, may be found in the feet and hands. Working over these areas helps to break down and get rid of toxic waste products and restore energy flow.

Who can benefit?
Reflexology is suitable for people of all ages. Babies and children respond well to treatment as they are naturally relaxed and their bodies are very responsive. Reflexology may be effective for many conditions including:

• Pain relief (e.g. back pain)
• Headaches/migraines
• Fertility problems
• Arthritis
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal imbalances
• Digestive problems (e.g. IBS)
• Stress-related conditions

You do not have to be ill to benefit from reflexology. It is a wonderful therapy that relaxes the mind, body and spirit and gives you a fantastic feeling of wellbeing.

What happens during a treatment
On the first visit, a reflexologist will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle. They will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. Congested reflexes may feel uncomfortable but shouldn’t hurt as the therapist should check that you are comfortable at all times. The application and the effect of the therapy are unique to each person.

There are occasions when the reflexologist may treat the hands instead of the feet. For instance if the foot is injured or there is an infection, if there is not enough time for a foot treatment or if the client would prefer their hands to be treated instead of their feet for comfort reasons or personal preference

How do I find a qualified reflexologist?
In 1999 The Reflexology Forum was set up by the majority or organisations representing qualified reflexologists. The purpose of this was to bring together all organisations concerned in the training and development of reflexologists in order to:

• promote the development of national standards
• develop an agreed national curriculum and qualifications
• set up and maintain an on-going register of those reflexologists who have trained to an appropriate standard for their level of practice

The Association of Reflexologists (AoR) is a member of the Reflexology Forum. The AoR will only allow reflexologists to become full members if their training satisfies their stringent requirements. Full members use the letters MAR after their name.
The AoR’s website has a ‘Find A Reflexologist’ search in which you can enter your postcode to find a full member of the AoR who is practising in your area.
 

I hope you have found this introduction to reflexology interesting. If you are in the Melksham area and would like to book an appointment please call 01225 782403 or 0797 987 2603 or visit www.wiltshirereflexology.co.uk