Foot Reflexology
What Is It?
Did you know that your feet contain a veritable medicine bag of healing tools for your entire body?
The practice of foot reflexology uses manual compression and stimulation of specific reflex points in the feet to promote relaxation, improved circulation and homeostasis in the whole being.
There is evidence that the ancient Egyptians, in 3,000 BC, and the Chinese in 1,000 AD, used massage to the feet in healing practices. The term “ reflexology “ came into use as physicians discovered, over time, that the application of pressure in one area could effect an outcome in a distant region of the body.
In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s research into reflexes and the body’s response to point stimulation abounded. In 1938 Eunice B. Ingham published Stories Feet Can Tell which included case histories, practical application instruction and a detailed map of reflex points on the foot. Today there are numerous resources offering foot reflexology information. The awareness of the beneficial effects of reflexology treatments continues to grow as its popularity expands.
A typical reflexology session is given to the recipient who is in a relaxed reclined or semi-reclined position. Usually treatment starts with general soothing motions and progresses to more specific reflex point stimulation. The session will end with relaxation techniques and suggestions for the client to follow up with home techniques.