Reflexology is a non intrusive holistic therapy which can be undertaken by anyone at any age, from newborn babies to those receiving end of life care and everyone in between. A reflexologist works on points on the feet, lower legs or hands.
The art of reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt, India and China, but it wasn’t until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced it as “Zone Therapy” to the western world. He discovered that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body. In the 1930’s Eunice Ingham further developed “Zone Therapy” into what is now known as reflexology.
Reflexology is a very individual treatment, which works with you holistically, so it is not possible to know in advance how you will react. The theory is that reflexology helps the body restore its balance naturally. Usually you might feel relaxed and tension might be reduced after a treatment, you may sleep better and you may notice a feeling of improved mood and general wellbeing.
You might also notice that other aspects improve too, but that happens on a very individual basis. With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important for people to take more responsibility for their own healthcare needs, however reflexology may be one of the ways to mitigate the stresses of modern life.
Some doctors and other healthcare professionals recognise reflexology as a well-established and respected effective therapy. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice and we encourage you to tell your doctor that you are receiving reflexology, whatever your motivation.
There has been some positive research claims carried out with reflexology. Research from Japan shows a link from foot reflexology points to a brain reaction using functional MRI scanning. This small study goes some small way towards explaining how reflexology might link feet to organs, through a blood flow reaction in the brain.
A Holistic Centre of Excellence in Cheltenham
