Monday, April 25, 2016

Reflexology and how does it work?

What is reflexology?

Reflexology is a science which deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body. Stimulating these reflexes properly can help many health problems in a natural way, a type of preventative maintenance. Reflexology is a serious advance in the health field and should not be confused with massage.

The idea behind Reflexology is not new - in fact, it was practiced as early as 2330 B.C. by the Egyptian culture. Reflexology as we know it today was first researched and developed by Eunice Ingham, the pioneer of this field. Her first book on the subject was published in 1938. And since 1942, Reflexology workshops have been conducted year round.

The Ingham Method® of Reflexology is used primarily for relaxing tension. Doctors agree that over 75% of our health problems can be linked to nervous stress and tension. Reflexology improves nerve and blood supply, and helps nature to normalize.
 


Only the hands are used, making it a safe, simple, yet effective method without the use of gadgets. Let your fingers do the walking.
(Source: International Institute of Reflexology.5650 First Avenue North, PO Box 12642, St Petersburg FL, 33733-2642 (USA)). 

A video explanation what is reflexology by Wellness and Autoimmune Center of Virginia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qBIiBf9v3Ms
 
Introduction to reflexology by Homespa Beauty:

An Introduction to reflexology video from the Association of Reflexologists:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z8mWlgKMJZ0 

How Does Reflexology Work?



One theory is that reflexology works with the central nervous system. This theory builds on research done in the 1890s by Sir Henry Head and Sir Charles Sherrington, who began to show through their research that a neurological relationship exists between the skin and the internal organs, and that the whole nervous system adjusts to a stimulus. 

According to the theory, the reflexologist's application of pressure to feet, hands, or ears sends a calming message from the peripheral nerves in these extremities to the central nervous system, which in turn signals the body to adjust the tension level. This enhances overall relaxation, brings internal organs and their systems into a state of optimum functioning, and increases blood supply (which brings additional oxygen and nutrients to cells and enhances waste removal). It positively affects the circulatory, respiratory, endocrine, immune, and neuropeptide systems in the body. 

Another theory that may also explain how reflexology can produce pain relief is the gate control theory, or, more recently, the neuromatrix theory of pain. This theory suggests that pain is a subjective experience created by your brain. The brain does this in response to the sensory experience of pain, but it can also work independently of sensory input and create pain in response to emotional or cognitive factors. Thus things that influence the brain, such as your mood or external factors like stress can also affect your experience of pain. According to this theory, reflexology may reduce pain by reducing stress and improving mood.

Yet another theory holds that there is a "vital energy" in the human body. If stress is not addressed, it leads to congestion of energy, which in turn causes bodily inefficiencies, which can lead to illness. According to this theory, reflexology helps keep the energy flowing.


(Source: Karen Teagarden, BA, ARCB Reflexologist Karen Teagarden has more than 14 years of experience as a reflexologist, teacher, and writer. As a nationally certified reflexologist, she assisted both Abbott Northwestern Hospital and Methodist Hospital and Clinics in Minneapolis, Minn. in starting complementary care programs for cancer patients. They use reflexology at the bedside in the hospital and during chemotherapy treatments in the clinics. While at Methodist Hospital, Teagarden initiated and supervised the Reflexology Intern Program and wrote the manual for interns. She has also written articles about reflexology for local magazines and industry periodicals, and she recently completed the Complementary Therapy Workbook to assist cancer patients in facing the emotional, mental, and spiritual issues not addressed by the medical teams.).  

Further interesting viewing:  

Senior visitor of West Roxbury's Farmers Market shares experience of reflexology from Perfectly Balanced Life

My experience of reflexology, which I loved! Would recommend to all my viewers. This video will give you an idea of what it is about! 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CVFeiOSKbck 

Check out the reflexology Mutiara Damansara:

1 comment:

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