Reflexology
Reflexology (zone therapy) is the practice of massaging, squeezing, or pushing on parts of the feet, or sometimes the hands and ears, with the goal of encouraging a beneficial effect on other parts of the body, or to improve general health.
Around the world and throughout history reflexology has been rediscovered and reinstated as a health practice time and time again by peoples around the globe seeking to deal with health concerns. Archeological evidence Egypt (2330 BCE), China (2704 BCE) and Japan (690 CE) points to ancient reflexology medical systems. In the West the concept of reflexology began to emerge in the 19th century, based on research into the nervous system and reflex. While no direct evidence of direct cross-fertilization from ancient times has been discovered, the practice of foot and hand work in a variety of cultures, belief systems and historical periods speaks to reflexology for health as a universal bridging concept.
Pressure is applied to the feet and hands using specific thumb, finger and hand techniques. Stretch and movement techniques are utilized as "desserts" to provide relaxation to the foot. Oil, cream and lotion is not utilized in traditional reflexology work. Tools or instruments are used for self help application only due to safety concerns.
A reflexology chart shows the "reflex zones" worked by reflexologists on the soles of the feet. Similar maps exist for the position of the reflexes on the hands and ears.
In this chart, the color codes represent the following organs or parts of the body:
Here are some important reminders before using reflexology.
- Avoid use for one hour after meals.
- Within 30 minutes after massage, you should drink at least 500 cc (cubic centimeters) of warm water; in cases of kidney or heart disease, you should drink no more than 150 cc of water.
- Do not apply heavy pressure to bones.
- In case of serious heart conditions, diabetes, or kidney problems, use at any time should be restricted to under 10 minutes.
- In case of epilepsy, heart conditions, or high blood pressure, a physician should be consulted.
- If after use of the massage board for a period of time, do not feel alarmed if an ailment seems to worsen or the mouth feels dry. This is normal, especially in the case of inflammation or rheumatism and will pass shortly.
