- What is Reflexology?
- Why does Reflexology feel so good?
- How does Reflexology work?
- What are the benefits of Reflexology?
- What can Reflexology do for my health?
- What does Reflexology feel like?
- Does Reflexology have age requirements?
- Is Reflexology the same as massage?
- How long does a session last?
- What should I expect in a Reflexology session?
- How much pressure should be used?
- Do all people feel sensitive areas when receiving foot Reflexology?
- How can I experience Reflexology if my feet are extremely ticklish?
- If I fall asleep, will it still work?
- What will I feel like after a Reflexology session?
- How many sessions do I need for results?
- Is Reflexology a good career choice?
- Can I become a certified Reflexologist with the Universal College of Reflexology?
- Can I start my own Reflexology business?
- What is the history of Reflexology?
1.What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a gentle, natural, non-invasive ancient and scientific healing art, which is based on the idea that there are specific areas in the feet and hands, which correspond to all glands, organs, parts and systems of the body. The physical act of applying pressure to these reflex points (nerve endings) by using specific thumb techniques results in stress reduction, which promotes positive physiological changes in other areas of the body.
2. Why Does Reflexology Feel So Good?
Second only to the lips, the feet contain around 7,200 nerve endings and therefore have immense sensitivity
3. How Does Reflexology Work?
As we go about our daily lives, minute amounts of waste containing lactic acid, uric acid, calcium and various other by-products develop as the nervous system communicates with the body. When the body is overstressed these waste products build up and are carried along the nerve paths to the extremities. Here they settle in and cause blocked energy and circulation. When pressure is applied to the nerve endings (reflex areas) messages are transmitted to the brain through the nervous system and the body responds by working toward a biologically balanced state
4. What Are The Benefits Of Reflexology?
Reflexology’s primary function is to induce an optimal state of relaxation that leads to healing. It promotes the body’s marvelous ability to adjust and balance during times of stress.
5.What Can Reflexology Do For My Health?
Beyond relaxation, reflexology has been shown to:
- Relieve stress
- Reduce tension and tightness
- Promote balance in the body
- Improve nerve functioning
- Improve circulation / blood supply
- Improve lymph drainage
- Release toxins and impurities
- Rejuvenate tired tissues / cells
- Help to restore a proper fluid balance in the tissues
- Build up the body’s immunity and resistance to disease
- Provide grounding
- Clear emotional debris
- Speed the elimination of waste products
- Create an overall sense of well-being
Because reflexology promotes well-being it may also help to:
- Control/decrease pain and improve comfort
- Relieve fatigue
- Decrease soreness and healing time
- Improve sleep
- Reduce swelling from injuries or illness
- Improve concentration
- Improve skin tone
- Improve mood
- Relieve circulatory disorders
- Reduce anxiety
- Relieve headaches and migraines
- Relieve sinus problems
- Relieve stomach and back aches
- Lessen menstrual discomfort
- Relieve digestive problems
- Increase energy
The above lists are not all encompassing. Different results may be realized by each person. In general, reflexology persuades the body to balance and heal itself, encourages the end of further deterioration, strengthens and reinforces all systems in the body and promotes overall good health. Reflexology is used to complement traditional medicine. It is never meant to replace prescribed therapies and treatments. It is advisable to inform your medical doctor or other licensed health care professional that you will be receiving reflexology sessions if you have been diagnosed with any disease, injury or other physical or mental conditions.
6.What Does Reflexology Feel Like?
Reflexology is pleasant and relaxing, although some reflex areas may be more sensitive than others. Often sensitive areas are merely those deposits mentioned earlier which have settled in the feet and created energy blockages.
7. Does Reflexology Have Age Requirements?
No. The wonderful experience of reflexology can be realized by all ages. From newborns to the very old, from the ill and frail to the healthy and well, reflexology can be integrated into your lifestyle and used to complement modern medicine as well as a preventative measure to maintain good health.
8. Is Reflexology The Same As Massage?
No. Reflexology is not massage and differs in that it works through stimulation of reflex points (nerve endings) to evoke an autonomic nervous system response which helps create balance throughout the entire body. Reflexology is considered a form of bodywork.
9. How Long Does A Session Last?
A complete Reflexology session (both feet) most usually takes 40 to 45 minutes. Less time is usually an incomplete session (less effective) or too fast a technique which can be
over-stimulating.
10. What Should I Expect In A Reflexology Session?
Simply take off your shoes and socks and you are ready for your entire body to reap rewards. At each session soothing, relaxing techniques are used on the feet in preparation for the more specific reflexology pressure techniques which are systematically applied until the session is complete
11. How Much Pressure Should Be Used?
Suggested pressure is between 3 and 5 pounds. Some people prefer to ‘feel’ the reflexology session, others not. Stay within your comfort level.
12. Do All People Feel Sensitive Areas When Receiving Foot Reflexology?
No! There are a variety of things that can affect foot sensitivity. Some include the amount of current stress, callus or corns on the feet. Also medication, both prescribed and over the counter (which includes aspirin, herbal products and aromatherapy oils).
13. How Can I Experience Reflexology If My Feet Are Extremely Ticklish?
Interestingly enough, the feet are not usually ticklish when receiving reflexology.
14. If I Fall Asleep, Will It Still Work?
It is very common to be so relaxed that you fall asleep during the session. The wonderful benefits of reflexology will still be realized, as it makes no difference to the reflexes whether you are awake or asleep. When the reflexes are stimulated messages are still delivered to the brain.
15. What Will I Feel Like After a Reflexology Session?
Most people feel wonderfully relaxed, re-energized and renewed. Some have described feelings of incredible well-being, others of walking on clouds. You may feel calm and relaxed or you may experience a feeling of energy and rejuvenation.
16. How Many Sessions Do I Need For Results?
Depending on your personal goal for wellness, session regularity will vary accordingly. Monthly for preventative and maintenance program. Weekly may be more suited in some cases, to encourage a quicker return to balance and health. Any periodic session will rejuvenate and enhance your overall sense of well-being and of course your feet will be delighted!
17. Is Reflexology a Good Career Choice?
Reflexology is quickly gaining in world-wide recognition as an excellent way towards providing and maintaining health care for all ages. A good reflexologist has sensitive and strong hands. Personal cleanliness and a professional outlook are important. For those who choose self-employment, good business sense is essential. Reflexology is best suited to those who are committed to helping people, and who are able to sustain a challenging work routine. Success is available to anyone – it’s the result of having the right knowledge, attitude and contacts.
18. Can I become a certified Reflexologist with the Universal College of Reflexology?
Yes. Since 1991, the Universal College of Reflexology has been providing a high standard of tuition at very reasonable fees, and has grown from strength to strength. We offer distant learning or home study programs for Foot Reflexology, Hand Reflexology and Ear Reflexology. We also offer a home study Anatomy & Physiology course, as well as courses in Aromatherapy, Crystals and Herbology.
19. Can I start my own Reflexology business?
Yes! The Foot Reflexology Certification program offered by the Universal College of Reflexology will give a thorough training and understanding into the world of Reflexology, enough to start your own Reflexology business. Of course anyone starting a new business needs to check with their local licensing and business requirements and work within those guidelines.
20. What Is The History Of Reflexology?
The idea of reflexology is not new. There are several theories of origination and they all date back to ancient times, but no one culture is given complete credit for its development because of its parallel evolution globally. One widely held theory is that it originated in China some 5000 years ago. Another theory claims that a form of reflexology was passed down to the American Indians by the Incas. The oldest documentation however, depicting the practice of reflexology, was unearthed in Egypt. This evidence, a wall engraving was found in the tomb of an Egyptian physician, dates back to around 2500 B.C.
Reflexology, as we know it today, began evolving in the early 1900’s when Dr. William Fitzgerald, referred to as the father of reflexology, found that the application of pressure to various parts of the body deadened pain in other areas and thus reduced the need for anesthesia in surgery and other procedures. He mapped out 10 zones, calling his work Zone Analgesia. Dr. Shelby Riley further developed the Zone Theory along side Dr. Fitzgerald.
Subsequently Eunice Ingham, a physical therapist who worked closely with Dr. Riley, started developing her foot reflex theory in the early 1930’s. Now referred to as the founder of modern reflexology, she discovered that in using a pressure technique across the soles of the feet, she was able to stimulate and heal other parts of the body, rather than to merely numb sensations of pain. Her work is continuing to grow in popularity today. Lauren Slade (author and creator of this web site) studied Reflexology with Eunice Ingham’s nephew Dwight Byers, in the 1980’s in London, England.