Reflexology is thought to have originated in China a few
thousand years ago and it was also used by the ancient
Egyptians. It was brought to Western society by an
American Doctor called William Fitzgerald. What he did
was to apply ten zones to the surface of the body and these
zones were regarded as paths along which a persons 'vital
energy' flowed, ending at the hands or feet. Therefore
when pain was experienced in one part of the body, it could
be relieved by applying pressure somewhere else in the same
zone.
The uses of reflexology are numerous. It is especially
effective for the relief of pain (headaches, back pain and
toothache), treatment of digestive disorders, stress and
tension, colds and influenza, asthma, arthritis and many
more. It is also possible to predict a potential illness
and either give preventive therapy or suggest that
specialist advice be sought. The massaging action of
reflexology creates a soothing effect that increases
blood flow. This action benefits the whole body.
No form of medication is used in the practice of
Reflexology. A person's vital energy is thought to follow
certain routes along the body, connecting every gland or
organ with a pressure point at the hands, feet or at
another part of the body. When the available routes are
blocked and a tenderness on the body points to such a
blockage, this is an indication that there is an ailment
somewhere else in the body. These routes can be cleared by
the massaging of particular reflex points thus restoring
the energy flow and healing any damage.
Reflex massage causes a soothing effect that results in
muscular and nervous relief. For example the pressure of a
finger applied to a particular point may create a sensation
elsewhere in the body which will indicate a connection
between the two points. This is the basis of Reflexology
and although pain may not be eliminated immediately,
continued massage will usually have a beneficial effect.
On a warning note, there are certain conditions where
Reflexology is not appropriate. These include diabetes,
heart conditions, osteoporosis, disorders of the thyroid
gland and phlebitis. It may also not be suitable for
pregnant women.
The recommended way to undergo Reflexology is by a trained
therapist who will usually massage all of the reflex areas.
Although there have been very few large scale clinical
trials to ascertain the efficiency of Reflexology, it is
generally thought that it does little harm but much benefit.
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