Reflexology: Zone Therapy

Reflexology is a massage to relieve tension by finger pressure; based on the belief that there are reflex points on the feet, hands, and head that are connected to every part of the body.

Reflexology can be performed practically anytime and anywhere. However, the best results are derived when it is performed on a consistent basis.

Although you can have a foot massage at any time of the day, many people prefer to have one at the end of the day to help them unwind and relax.

*Fact: According to Newsweek magazine Princess Diana had foot reflexology three times a week.

Reflexologiests believe, working the foot is like working and healing the body.

Many civilizations have practiced reflexology. Evidence of this has been documented on four continents: Asia, Europe, Africa, and North America. Reflexology may be one of the oldest forms of practiced massages. Archaeological evidence draws us back to Egypt (2330 BCE), Japan (690 CE), and China ((2704 BCE). It seems to disappear and then reappear centuries later in one form or another.

Many changes took place in zone therapy, or reflexology, as new knowledge was added. The precursor of modern reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872–1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body. Reflexology was further developed in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham (1889–1974), a nurse and physiotherapist. Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into “reflexes” on the feet. It was at this time that “zone therapy” was renamed reflexology.

The Association of Reflexologists explain that the method of treatment can help with migraines, arthritis, fertility, back pain, constipation, and asthma.

Reflexology massage therapy has numerous benefits. A session can not only treat the symptoms of a disease, but improves the whole body well–being. Improve your well–being, relax and increase your energy levels with repeated sessions!