Revitalize, Restore, Reflexology

Revitalize, Restore, Reflexology: Decoding the Ancient Healing Technique that is seen as having several physical and mental health benefits.

I fell in love with Reflexology long before I started my massage therapy career. At the time I discovered it, I was looking for alternative ways to feel better from a stubborn injury I was experiencing at the time. My internet search led me to the ancient practice of foot reflexology. I went straight to the corresponding reflex point in my foot, and to my surprise, that specific location was far more painful than anywhere else. It wasn’t until years later in my massage studies that I learned exactly what reflexology is and how much its positively impacted people for centuries. It has since become one of my favorite healing modalities to both give & receive.

What is reflexology:

Reflexology, also recognized as Zone Therapy, engages in an alternative manual approach that targets reflex points found in the hands, ears, and feet. Each reflex point or zone corresponds to distinct internal and external organs, systems, and body parts.

A reflexologist employs various techniques, utilizing their thumb, finger, and hand to apply pressure to these reflex points. Notably, reflexology distinguishes itself from a mere foot massage, generally excluding the application of lotion unless a foot massage concludes the session.

What is a Reflex Point:

A “reflex point” signifies any juncture within a system where a stimulus or input initiates an automatic or involuntary response. The application of pressure to these points induces stress reduction, prompting a physiological shift within the body.

Why It is Popular:

Aside from the relaxation response nap many clients take mid session, it is also a therapy is that is generally considered be safe and non-invasive, and is often used as a complementary therapy to conventional medical treatment. Reflexology’s non-intrusive character renders it a favored modality. It is believed that feet epitomize an individual’s physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Reflexology is hailed as the means to unlock and activate the body’s inherent healing capacities.

Book a Foot Reflexology session with me and try it for yourself: Schedule an Appointment

Note that reflexology should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatment. If you have a medical condition or are experiencing symptoms, it’s important to seek the advice of a healthcare provider.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that is believed to offer several physical and mental health benefits. reported benefits include:

• Activates improved sleep patterns
• Promotes relaxation by reducing muscle tension, calming the nervous system, and inducing deep relaxation
• Rejuvenates the body and mind, enhancing overall energy levels
• Assists nervous system and endocrine gland functions, thereby achieving body balance
• Enhances blood flow within the circulatory system, facilitating the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells
• Facilitates the smooth flow of nerves
• Boosts immune function, resulting in reported increased resistance to illness and expedited recovery
• Aides in the release of waste products, helping to cleanse the body of impurities 
• Centers the mind, improves attention span, and stimulates creativity and productivity
• Serves as method of preventive health care and complementary treatment 
• Pain relief: Some people report relief from pain and discomfort in various parts of the body, such as headaches, back pain, and menstrual cramps

Theories Behind its Benefits:

There are many theories as to how and why reflexology works. As a reflexologist applies pressure on the feet, hands, or ears that will affect all organs, glands, and parts of the body in the following ways: 

• The flow of energy through body channels and zones
• The flow of blood throughout the body 
• The flow of nerves that send signals through the body 

The History:

• 2330 B.C. – Egyptian Physicians tomb Ankhamor shows wall carving of people working on the feet and hands of a recipient

• 1917 – Zone Therapy is Published by Dr. William H. Fitzgerald (1872-1942), an ENT physician in Boston and Hartford Ct. who studied in Europe. In 1902, he began working on patients hands using devices to numb facial areas. He introduces vertical zone therapy. 

• 1924 – Zone Reflex is Published by Dr. Joe Shelby Riley, a colleague of Dr. Fitzgerald, who introduces horizontal zone therapy

• 1938 –  Stories the Feet Can Tell Through Reflexology is Published by Eunice D. Ingham. In the 1940’s and 1950’s Eunice Ingham shares her findings with her entire country including the medical community 

• 1983 – Better Health with Foot Reflexology is Published by Dwight C. Byers, the nephew, of Eunice Ingham. He became the head of the International Institute of Reflexology

What are the Crunchies in our Feet:

While conducting a session, a reflexologist may identify tight areas on the feet otherwise known as granular deposits. By applying pressure through reflexology techniques, they can enhance circulation to these areas and release tension, thereby unblocking energy channels or imbalances. Reflexologists commonly refer to these obstructions as “crystals” or “crunchies.” Devaki Berkson’s book, “The Foot Book,” provides insights into the potential origins of these blockages.

• Undissolved acids, such as lactic acid or uric, due to trauma, overuse, lack of nutrition, or oxygen, and poor circulation
• Injured, hardened, or inflamed nerve fiber endings 
• Tension or energy blocks
• Tissue degeneration and hardening from lack of nutrition in the area due to poor circulation or trauma. This condition might be likened to mini-adhesions, or tiny scabs inside the foot
• Pollutants, foreign particles, metallic build up, toxins directed to the feet by gravity, and or fatty accumulation such as cholesterol
• Fatty deposits, that have solidified or become fibrous 
• Calcifications and spurs in abnormal areas such as muscle

Various Reactions from Receiving Reflexology:

Immediately after a Session:

• Immediately after a Reflexology Session: 
• Deep relaxation, tranquility, serenity, or sleep
• Feeling of being in balance, centered, and mentally clear
• Revitalization from release of blocked up energy 
• Light, floating, feeling from release of endorphins 
• Tingling or itchiness from improved circulation and nerve flow

In the first 24 hours of receiving Reflexology, the recipient may experience one or more of the following symptoms as the body initiates its self-cleansing process. This phenomenon typically occurs during the initial and second sessions and usually diminishes within a 24-hour period.

• Fatigue 
• More urination or bowel movements and diarrhea 
• Nausea
• Sinus congestion and drainage
• Saliva secretions 
• Rashes
• Odors and perspiration 
• Emotional releases 

Who Should Not Receive Reflexology:

If you’re contemplating experiencing reflexology, it’s crucial to locate a certified professional and engage in a conversation with your medical advisor about possible advantages and risks. Common factors that might make someone unsuitable for reflexology include:

• Varicose Veins, Phlebitis, Gangrene, or any problem with blood clots
• Severe osteoporosis 
• Unstable pregnancy or bleeding during pregnancy
• Severe edema and pitting edema 
• Lacerations, ulcers, open wounds and or sores oozing fluids
• Gout, ingrown toenails, bunions, or corn. 

Revitalize, Restore, Reflexology: Decoding the Ancient Healing Technique that unveils a profound connection between the body’s vital energy pathways and holistic well-being, offering a gateway to revitalization and balance. Embark on a journey to discover renewed vitality and harmony through the age-old wisdom of reflexology.

Reflexology Resources: Better Health with Foot Reflexology, Stories the Feet Can Tell Thru Reflexology, The Foot Book