Reflexology
What is reflexology?
Reflexology harmonises and balances the body at the physical level, but also works on the subtle energy fields. The therapist’s thumb pad is used to apply steady pressure to specific points. Responses include a feeling of light pressure, slight discomfort — like pressure over a bruised area, a sharp pricking sensation, deadened feeling or numbness.
Benefits:
Harmonises and balances the energy field,
Reduces tension from body tissue,
Stimulates all systems,
Detoxifies the body, and
Nourishes at cellular level.
How does it work?
The organs of the body are reflected in the foot. When a point is stimulated on the foot through massage, a nerve impulse is carried via the nervous system to the brain, so a sensation of touch is experienced and an autonomic reflex to the touch occurs. Activation of the parasympathetic nervous system releases endorphins, which affect the well ‘feeling’ and being of person. When the massage is rhythmic, and the pressure of touch is determined by the patient – not too light to cause a tickling sensation, not too strong to cause discomfort – the patient begins to relax physically. Patients’ responses to massage vary, and where there is an awareness of subtle energy changes, the response will not only be one of conscious relaxation and peace, but also of the stimulus travelling through the energetic bodies of the patient. Simultaneous stimulation of the meridians carries the impulses of touch through the auric field and gently releases any negativity held within.
Employed as part of a healing programme, the combination of medicine and holistic healing can enhance medical interventions, and also stimulate cellular growth and repair so that health is regained in a shorter span of time.
How can reflexology help me?
Physiological effects of reflexology on body systems include regenerating, relaxing, cleansing, eliminating, balancing and improving the overall functions of the body and the systems of the body.
Psychological benefits include mental relaxation, decreased anxiety, and enhanced mental alertness, concentration, thinking and creativity.
Spiritual benefits include increased confidence and well-being, enhanced self-image and worth, improved sense of connection with the self, and increased awareness of the body/mind/spirit connection to help reduce or remove emotional blocks.
All body therapies are complemented with aromatherapeutic oils, many of which promote peace and relaxation. Additionally, many of the molecules of the aromatic oils are considered analgesic, antiseptic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and stimulating. Using an appropriate blend of oils to work synergistically (or just the simple use of one with a massage) will add to the healing administered. Aromatic oils work on the energy bodies, promoting emotional, psychological and spiritual changes in the journey to wholeness and health.
