A Beginner’s Guide to Reflexology

In the second of our series ‘Alternative Therapies’, Health & Wellness looks at Reflexology, what it involves and how it can help.

Reflexologists use the theory that there are ten zones or energy lines running up and down the body, following a line from each toe and each finger to the top of the head. Blockages of energy occur along these zones, caused by disorder or disease in the organs and structures and Reflexologists aim to release these blockages by using the pressure techniques already mentioned.

Reflexology is an ideal health strategy for prevention of ill health and should not be viewed as a last resort when orthodox medicine has not achieved the desired result in dealing with a health problem. Regular monthly treatments are an excellent way to maintain properly balanced systems and can help prevent the occurrence of disease.

Once illness has taken hold, Reflexology can be used in its fullest sense as a “Complementary”’ adjunct to medical treatment with the co-operation of the client’s doctor/consultant. It is heartening indeed that so many consultants, particularly in the field of Oncology, are now recognizing the benefits of the anxiety-relieving, and calming affects of this valuable therapy.

Reflexologists do not diagnose specific illnesses unless they also have a medical degree. Reflexologists deal with areas of the body where the normal flow of energy through the organs and structures is impeded. This can occur when disease or disorder currently exists in the body, or it may indicate that the immune system is not working to full capacity. This leaves the body vulnerable to attack from viral and bacterial infection. Stress of any kind also creates many physical conditions. Your symptoms may indicate a specific disease, but if you have not seen a doctor you should always be referred to your doctor for evaluation.

By the end of the treatment, your therapist will be able to tell you the areas that needed extra attention as he/ she will have gone over every organ and structure during the course of the treatment. Your symptoms may reflect major tension and stress-related problems in which case practical advise regarding lifestyle changes may be appropriate. 

How Reflexology affects the Body

Reflexology affects the body in different ways and no two clients will have identical experiences. The main effects can be summarized as follows:

1. It helps maintain general health.

2. It reduces stress and tension by relaxing the whole person.

3. It decreases congestion in the energy pathways allowing energy to circulate freely.

4. It helps to encourage homeostasis i.e. a state of balance in the body.

5. It helps boost the circulation of Blood and Lymph through their respective systems.

6. It helps regulate bodily functions, such as Digestive, Endocrine, Respiratory and Excretory systems.

7. It helps increase energy levels.

8. It helps improve mental alertness.

9. It instills a feeling of well-being and contentment.

10. It leads to improvement of physical conditions or injuries.

11. Stimulates creativity and productivity.

12. Helps improve inter-relationships between body systems.

Courtesy: Carol Morrissey I.T.E.C & C.I.B.T.A.C Holistic Therapist, and Member of the Irish Reflexology Institute.

Further sources of Information: The Tennessee Reflexology Association: www.tnreflexology.org for a list of members. Also, based on customer reviews: The Best 10 Reflexologists in Nashville at www.yelp.com