More Complementary & Integrative Healthcare Articles
Footsteps To Wellness
Reflexology is documented as far back as 2330 BC from hieroglyphics in an Egyptian physician's tomb. Currently reflexology is being revived as a complimentary modality in the Western world. It can be found in almost all cultures around the world. Reflexology consists uniquely of acupressure to foot, hand and/or ear points, which are viewed as individual microcosms of the body itself.
There are 7,200 nerve endings in each foot. By innervating these points via thumb/finger-walking and deep acupressure (not massage), the body relaxes and yields to achieving homeostasis, an optimum state of balance. Not a “tickle-touch”, reflexology embraces wellness as it melts away stress. Crystals are often noted, as well as reported areas of tenderness, that are believed to be areas of congestion improved with focal acupressure.
Reflexology sessions are routinely for one hour. Absolutely challenging to describe and overwhelmingly conveying a sense of relaxation, sessions consistently become individual experiences of reported well-being amazement.
With a preliminary client history and explanation of what a reflexology session entails, one often is able to experience a “zoning” or “semi-meditative” state of optimum relaxation and de-stressing. Many reflexology loyalists report less pain, improved sleep, decreased anxiety, improved elimination and increased energy to name a few outcomes. Each individual routinely validates an improved state of well-being as they report feet and legs feeling “light” and “so alive.” Most recipients report how wonderful they feel afterwards.
Reflexology is very “user-friendly” and readily complements other non-allopathic modalities, as well as traditional medical protocols. One needs to only be receptive. A reclining zero gravity La Fuma chair is the perfect stage for facilitating a floating reflexology experience. However, reflexology can be effectively performed just about anywhere a professional reflexologist can access a pair of feet or hands. With permission, a session that includes ears can be transforming.
Many chronic illnesses are managed well with traditional medical treatments. Reflexology can enhance these in a supportive, comforting manner. Condition discomforts, as well as measurable treatment side effects such as patient nausea and vomiting from chemotherapy, have often benefited from reflexology support.
Only contraindications for reflexology are skin lesions/rashes and/or blood-clot history. Please advise your professional reflexologist before your session if you have diabetes or are pregnant.
There are professional reflexology associations on state, national (www.reflexology-usa.org), and international (www.icr-reflexology.org) levels, as well as the American Reflexology Certification Board (www. arcb.net) for nationally certified, professional practitioners. Professional reflexologists are certified with a minimum 200+ hours of specific reflexology training and testing on local levels. Additionally, an ARCB Nationally certified reflexologist has another 200+ hours with required national testing. Reflexology instructors are certified by a national certification process at American Commission for Refelxology Education and Training (www.acaret.org).
Reflexology is a wellness transforming, complementary modality well-worth the exploration and investment. Make sure your clinician is certified in reflexology, as session experiences may vastly vary. One may also check with the Baltimore School of Reflexology (www.baltimoreschoolofreflexology.com) for locally certified reflexologists in your area.
