REFLEXOLOGY

The history of reflexology can be traced back many thousands of years. It has been practised by many ancient civilisations including the Egyptians, Indians, Chinese, Japanese, Russians, Red Indians and African tribefolk. The Chinese appear to have “discovered” reflexology in the 4^th century BC. And using acupuncture and very firm thumb pressures on the soles of feet. North American Indian tribes knew of the relationship between the reflex points and the internal organs of the body and used this knowledge to treat diseases. They still use this knowledge today.

The treatment did not become known in the West until Dr Fitzgerald in the late 19^th Century conducted research into zone therapy. His experiments showed that by applying pressure to key points on the body’s extremities, particularly the feet, he could bring about normal physiological functions in other parts of the body. He developed his work further to describe a system of 10 longitudinal zones in the body. Within each of these zones parts of the body were linked by an energy flow so they could effect one another.

Reflexology aims to correct three negative factors related to diseases: congestion, inflammation and tension.

Congested conditions are responsible for bringing on growths, inflammatory for bronchitis, sinusitis etc, and tension lowers the immune system.

Reflexology improves the circulation and detoxifies the body. It also stimulates the production of endorphins - the body’s natural pain killers. It is an holistic treatment and works best when treating the whole body rather than a specific complaint. It helps the body to heal itself.

Reflexology can be performed on the hands, feet and even the ears but is most commonly used on the feet.

Some of the many general benefits of reflexology are:

* The reduction of stress levels and the induction of deep relaxation

* The improvement of blood and lymphatic circulation

* Revitalises the body

* Helps back conditions

* Headaches

* High blood pressure

* Sinusitis

* Breathing problems

* Sciatica

* Skin conditions

* Menstrual problems

* After a stroke

* Tennis elbow

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Clients who have any of the following need to have a Doctor’s note before they can receive treatment:

* Severe circulatory problems (very high or low blood pressure)

* History of thrombosis/ embolism

* Infectious diseases of the feet

* Diabetes

* Severe bruising

* Recent haemorrhage or swellings

* Recent operations (6 months for most , 2 years for very serious operations)

* Client undergoing medical treatment or has a condition which may be affected by the treatment

* Pregnancy

* Cancer