Joyful Soles Reflexology
IT IS GOOD FOR THE SOLEREFLEXOLOGY: WHAT IS IT?
Reflexology is a simple, non-invasive and effective heath modality based on the
principle that there are reflex points throughout the feet and hands which correspond
to all parts of our bodies - every system, organ and gland.
This is a website you can visit for an interative map of our feet and buy the book!
When these reflex areas are stimulated by the therapist using specific thumb, finger
and hand techniques, nerve pathways are stimulated, circulation is increased, and
congestion is cleared. This helps facilitate the body to relax and resume a natural state of balance, or homeostasis, assisting the body to heal in its own natural way. It can have some astonishing results!
75% of today’s diseases are attributable to stress and tension. Stress causes constriction of the blood vessels, a tightening which can lead to serious consequences. It impedes the blood/nerve flow to that body part, thus disease happens. Reflexology opens these pathways.
HISTORY
The therapeutic benefits of reflexology have been utilized in diverse cultures for centuries. A hieroglyph was taken out of a physician's tomb in Egypt during an archaeological investigation. On this hieroglyph there depicts two reflexology treatments in session. One treatment is for the hands, one for the feet. The translated inscription reads, "Please don't hurt me (said by the recipient)", and the reply reads, "I will act so you praise me (a reply from the practitioner)".
The Chinese form of therapy known as Zone Therapy is the basis of reflexology today. A doctor by the name of William Fitzgerald discovered this form of therapy and wrote a book describing how putting pressure on certain areas in the feet and hands could act as a painkiller or anaesthetic. An American woman by the name of Eunice Ingham received this book from her colleague, Dr. Shelby Riley. Together they developed zone therapy even further. Eunice eventually started to realize that the zones could be broken down into specific reflexes that could communicate with the glands, organs and rest of the body. She decided that applying pressure utilizing specific techniques, one could activate the area of the body that corresponded to the reflexes. She published her first book in 1938 where her discoveries and techniques are well documented. She describes many miraculous recoveries from "untreatable" conditions using reflexology, and taught the techiques she pioneered to many.
Eunice died in 1974 at the age of 85 leaving an incredible legacy behind. To this day her legacy continues under the direction of her nephew, Dwight Byers, who is the president of the International Institute of Reflexology (IIR) in St. Petersburg Florida.
If it weren't for Eunice Ingham we would not have the standard of reflexology that is present today. I have had the great privilege of meeting and learning from Dwight Byers. I feel that the techniques and application of reflexology taught and utilized by the IIR are the best and most respected throughout the world.
Experience is the best teacher! Dwight Byers working on Rosemary
To learn more about the Institute visit www.reflexology-usa.net
WHAT IS A REFLEXOLOGY SESSION LIKE?
A typical reflexology session lasts about 50 – 60 minutes. The client reclines an anti-gravity chair that is very comfortable and easy on the spine. The only clothing you remove are your socks and shoes. The room is dimmed and peaceful, soothing music is played in the background. The session begins with a warm foot soak to help unwind and start the relaxation process. While the feet are softening the therapist begins using gentle, yet firm pressure on the clients hands and then proceeds to work the feet, focusing on areas that need extra attention.
Besides being healing it is also fun! Many clients make their sessions even more memorable and self-nurturing by adding essential oils, scrubs and foot masks to their session.
HOW OFTEN CAN I HAVE REFLEXOLOGY?
Even though reflexology feels so wonderful you'd like to have it done everyday, it is recommended to only have a full reflexology session every 3 or 4 days.
If you have a health condition that is being assisted with reflexology you may want to start with a session once every 3 or 4 days. As your condition improves you can increase the length of time between sessions. If you are healthy and using reflexology to maintain your health, a session once every couple of weeks or so will be sufficient. No one knows your body better than you. If you listen, your body will tell you when you need a session!
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM REFLEXOLOGY?
Everyone from young to old can benefit. Reflexology brings the
body back into homeostasis. Your body is able to attain a deeper
state of relaxation where the brain shifts from the sympathetic to the
parasympathetic nervous system (where healing can occur).
Even skeptics have become strong advocates. Try it and find out for yourself!
WHAT IF I AM EMBARRASSED ABOUT MY FEET?
A Reflexologist is not judging you or your feet! Many people are
embarrassed about their feet. Don’t worry, your feet will appreciate the loving care.
CAN I USE REFLEXOLOGY IF I AM ALSO SEEING A PHYSICIAN?
Yes. If you are under the care of a physician, it may enhance your results. However, is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. Its purpose is not to treat or diagnose for any specific medical disorder, but to promote better health and well being in the same way as an exercise or diet program. Reflexology can be a valuable way of indicating areas where higher stress or tension is present in the body and can assist to relieve that stress or tension which can promote or encourage the natural healing process. If a licensed health care provider such as a medical or naturopathic doctor is managing your condition, it is important that you discuss the consequences of any therapy (including reflexology) with this person before you commence treatment.
CAN REFLEXOLOGY MAKE A CONDITION WORSE?
No. Reflexology is a non-invasive natural therapy that relaxes the body. On rare occasions, release of toxins as a result of the body's natural healing process may result in symptoms such as perspiration, nausea or headaches. However these symptoms are temporary and not serious. It is important to drink water after your session to flush out toxins.
WHAT KIND OF REACTION CAN I EXPECT AFTER A TREATMENT?
Besides Happy feet?!?
Your session will leave you feeling tranquil and deeply relaxed. In addition
you may or may not feel an increase in bowel action and urination. Or you
may have a heavy head or aching limbs; this is a result of toxins that
have been released into your system. The above reactions are a normal
outcome of treatment and often show that a positive effect has been achieved.
Remember, Drink water!
With closest custody, guard your heart, for in it are the sources of life." (Proverbs 4:23 )
