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What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a manual practice that consists of working with specific finger, thumb, and hand techniques applied to specific reflex areas. This stimulates the complex neural pathways linking body systems, supporting the body's efforts to function optimally. The traditional practice of reflexology primarily focuses on the theory of reflex maps and their representation on the feet, hands, outer ears, and face.
What are the Benefits?
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Promotes balance and normalization of the body naturally
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Induces relaxation, reduces stress
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Enhances clarity
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Aids in improving and maintaining diabetes
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Improves circulation
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Enhances the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to cells
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Improves sleep patterns
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Boosts digestion
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reduces pain and inflammation
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Enhances nerve communication
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And so much more!
Reflexology History
Here’s the corrected text: One of the earliest findings of Reflexology is illustrated in a carved relief from the Tomb of the Physician in Saqqara, Egypt, dating back to 2330 BCE.An interesting find for reflexologists is the translation in hieroglyphs: “Do not let it be painful.” There also a depiction of a healer tending to the feet of soldiers at the Battle of Qadesh, which is found at the Temple of Amon at Karnak.
There are no findings (relics) in ancient China of healing work the feet. The earliest record dates back to the rule Chinese Emperor Huang Ti, 2704-2596 BCE. He wroteThe Medical Classic of the Yellow Emperor," in which he includes the “Examining Foot Method.” This method was studied and later systematized by a physician, who termed it the “Tao of Foot Center” (206-220 CE). It soon spread to Japan, with the earliest finding located at the Yakushiji Temple in N, built in 680 CE. It is an etching of a footprint.
The first use of the word “reflex” was by German physiologist Johann August Unzer in 1771 In 1880, Marshall Hall introduced the and coined the term “lex action.” By 1880, neurology had become its own medical branch, the understanding of reflexes deepened. An finding by Dr. T. Lauter Brunton revealed the beneficial use of inducing a blister on the skin to heal an internal problem. This study can be found in "Brain, A Journal of Neurology," and article is titled "Reflex Action as a Cause of Disease and Means of Cure." Sir Henry Head, an English physiologist, was able to identify and chart the areas of the spinal segments to which they belong, creating "Head Zones," also known asDermatomes." He explored the relationship between the skin and internal organs — super cool! Studies continue to grow and expand, such aslov’s famous reflex theory, which demonstrated the ringing of a bell and the dog salivating.
But HOW did we get the name REFLEXOLOGY? 1907, Dr. Vladimir Bekhterev coined the term "Reflexology." was shown in his work, “Objective Psychology,” which was translated into English in 1932 under the title “General Principles of Humanology.” Around the same time, if not a little earlier, in the late 0s to early 1900s, began to study and develop massage techniques later known as “reflex massage.” Dr. Alfrons Cornelius discovered “Pressure Points” and also provided evidence that when reflex is sensitive, the corresponding organ becomes imbalanced and malfunctions. He greatly explored the relationship between the Parasymhetic and Sympathetic Nervous Systems.
In 1861-1952, Sir Charles Sherrington proved that reflex responses are more complicated in that the whole system adjusts to stimuli. He coined the term "Proceptive Action." Sherrington worked with Dr. Edgar Adrian, who discovered that light or pressure is equally effective in stimulating the reflex. In 1911, Dr. Barczewski introduced the termReflex Massage," which is widely used for healing. Dr. FitzGerald (1872-1942 is credited as the father of "zone therapy."
Dr. Vladimir Bekhterev
Russian Neurologist
Zone Therapy divides the body into 10 vertical zones, 5 on each side Dr. Joe Shelby Riley trained by FitzGerald, furthered his theory and developed eight horizontal divisions for each zone. His work is the of what we know as Reflexology. In 193, Eunice Ingh worked for Dr. Riley and continued to refine Reflexology. Eunice is known as the “Mother of Reflexology.” For 40 years, traveled widely, educating others and offering Reflexology. She is also known for the discovery alternating pressure and techniques to promote healing. Her nephew, Dwight Byers, closely with her and toured with her. After her transition he took ownership of her and continued her teachings, forming the International Institute of Reflexology.
Eunice Ingham ~ “The Mother of Reflexology”