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What is Reflexology?
History
Reflexology as a therapy is both old and new. In ancient history, pressure therapies were recognized as preventive and therapeutic. Foot massage has been practiced by a variety of cultures and it is generally believed that its roots date as far back as 5000 years ago in China. Because of the dedication of practitioners worldwide, reflexology has developed into a respected and effective healing therapy.
Difference between Reflexology and Foot MassageÂ
The Therapeutic Reflexologist relies on the use of very specific finger, thumb and hand pressure techniques which can have therapeutic effects in other parts of the body. Appropriate health care advice is offered regarding conscious lifestyle choices to facilitate the activation the bodyâÂÂÂÂÂÂs healing potential. A Therapeutic Reflexologist identifies imbalances in the health of the patient by observing and feeling a number of things. These are understood as signs of emotional as well as physical wellness (or lack thereof). They include colours on the feet and nails, texture, tone, moisture, shape of the feet, and markings. With the use of specific pressure techniques therapists are able to pick up congestion and imbalances through, for example, tightness, sensitivity, granular areas. The feet and/or hands tell a story about the total wellness of the patient and the therapistâÂÂÂÂÂÂs observation is always done so in the entire context of the personâÂÂÂÂÂÂs emotional and physical health. A foot massage, on the other hand, makes use of soothing oil or lotion and slow, firm, gentle, gliding strokes all over the foot. This serves as a pamper or feel good service rather than a means to addressing health care and maintenance.
Practice of reflexology
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Evidence has been found to suggest the practice of reflexology in Egypt, North America, Japan, East India, Arabic and Grecian countries as well as in primitive African communities. The connection between the feet and wellness or harmony is, for example, suggested in:-
- BuddhaâÂÂÂÂÂÂs upturned foot, used to represent his entire being;
- symbols painted on the soles of the Hindu god, Lord Vishnu;
- pictographs in Egyptian tombs;
- and the belief of the Cherokee Indians in the significance of the feet connecting the earth and its energies to mankind.
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