HOLISTIC
THERAPIES:
An Introduction to Reflexology
by Shirley Shone
Holistic comes from the Greek word holos, which means whole. Holistic Therapies treat the person as a whole, and not just the symptom of a particular ailment. Our bodies, like a car engine, need to be in tune to function efficiently.
Reflexology is one holistic therapy that may help to keep this balance within us.
Reflexology works on the theory that a map or mirror of our body exists on our feet (see chart) and hands. By applying pressure to parts of the feet or hands a reflexologist may help remove blockages to that part of the body to bring it back into balance.
(chart reproduced with kind permission of
Blue Monkey Herbal Company -
www.bluemonkeyherbal.com
)
If someone is suffering from constipation the intestines area on the feet will feel very tight. During a treatment the therapist would concentrate on this area by applying pressure in order to encourage bowel movement. A person suffering from tinnitus (ringing in the ear) will most likely feel tenderness to the ear area on the feet, and by applying pressure to this area the problem may be reduced and in some cases totally cured, depending on the severity.
The benefits of reflexology are numerous and too many to mention, as it activates the body’s self-healing ability. The most important body systems triggered by Reflexology are the nervous and circulatory systems, thus helping with stress related issues and helping the organs to function more efficiently.
- Muscular and Skeletal disorders caused by bad posture, injury and the aging process
- Nervous system disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson’s disease
- Hormonal disorders such as Diabetes, PMT, Menopause and Infertility
- Digestive disorders such as constipation and IBS
- Skin disorders like eczema, psoriasis and acne
-
Respiratory disorders such as asthma
If you have a medical problem that is not listed, and would like further information please do not hesitate to contact the author.