Reflexology at Golden Healing
Reflexology has been known to man for thousands of years. It is a
natural healing science based on the principal that the anatomy of
the body is reflected in miniature on reflex zones on the feet and
hands. By using specific pressure techniques and massage on these
regions, healing is both initiated and accelerated in the corresponding
area of the body. This simple, non-invasive, beautifully balancing
therapy brings relief to a wide range of acute and chronic conditions
and is suitable for all ages.
On your first visit there is a preliminary consultation, where your
general health and medical history will be discussed. As Reflexology
is a holistic therapy it is important that your therapist understands
your body as a whole, and is aware of any medical conditions. The
treatment then begins with work on your feet or hands if necessary.
There may be discomfort in some places, but it is fleeting and can
be an indication of congestion or imbalance in a corresponding part
of the body. For the most part, the sensation is pleasant and soothing.
Reflexology will relax you while stimulating your body’s own
healing mechanisms.
A treatment varies in length depending on your body’s needs
and usually lasts for about one hour, although the initial consultation
may add some time to your first visit.
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The Benefits of Reflexology
An increasing number of people are using this safe, natural therapy
as a way of relaxing, balancing and harmonising the body. Following
illness, stress, injury or disease, the body can be in a state of
imbalance and vital energy pathways may be blocked preventing the
body from functioning effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore
and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and encourage healing.
A reflexologist uses her hands to apply gentle pressure to the feet.
For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique.
Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in
the feet, and by working on these points the reflexologist can release
blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions
are eased, and circulation and elimination is improved. This gentle
therapy encourages the body to heal itself at its own pace, often
counteracting a lifetime of misuse.
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The History of Reflexology
The ancient healing art of Reflexology was first practiced by early
Indian, Chinese and Egyptian people.
Dr. William Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose and throat surgeon,
introduced this therapy to the West in 1913. He noted that pressure
on specific parts of the body could have an anaesthetising effect
on a related area. Developing this theory, he divided the body into
ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded
that pressure on one part of a zone could affect everything else within
that zone. Thus, reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to
other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.
In the 1930’s, a therapist called Eunice Ingham further developed
and refined the zone therapy, into what is now known as foot Reflexology.
She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors
congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. Thus, when
you treat the big toes there is a related effect in the head, and
treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on
the whole body.
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The Association Of Reflexologists
The Association was founded in 1984. It arose from a need to establish
standards and to provide a network of qualified practitioners to which
the public can refer with confidence. It is a truly independent organisation,
not affiliated to any particular training establishment.
The aim of the Association is to help maintain a high standard of
practice and patient-care and to promote reflexology. Members are
men and women who are qualified therapists and who abide by the Association’s
Codes of Practice and Ethics. They do not claim to cure, diagnose
medical conditions or prescribe. They do not treat specific ailments,
but treat the person by stimulating and balancing the whole body.
The Association publishes a Referral Register of practitioners for
the benefit of members of the public who wish to consult a qualified
and experienced reflexologist. These members can be recognised by
the letters MAR after their name. For those wishing to learn the art
of Reflexology, the Association also publishes a list of recognised
and accredited training establishments.
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