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The Different Types of Reflexology
Learn About Foot, Hand and Ear Reflexology Treatments
Reflexology Schools | Wellness Community Bulletin
By the Natural Healers career research team – Your link to Alternative Medicine news, careers, trends and programs.
| | Reflexology is the deeply relaxing and healing art of using gentle touch on the feet, hands and ears to affect the entire body. Reflexology is based on the principle that there are microcosms or "mini-maps" of the entire body mirrored on these parts of the body. Reflexologists apply pressure to specific points and zones on the feet, hands and ears in order to sooth the nervous system, improve circulation, reduce stress and create balance in the body. Although there is evidence that similar practices may go back 5,000 years or more, modern reflexology was first developed in the early 1900s. There are three main types of reflexology. |
Foot Reflexology
There are over 7,000 nerve endings on the feet, making them an extraordinarily sensitive canvas for healing touch. Feet are also the base and foundation of the body, our connection with the earth. By "clearing" and gently stimulating points on the feet, reflexologists can help clients reach extraordinarily deep levels of relaxation. It is not uncommon for patients to enter a trance-like state of euphoria or deep sleep. The detoxifying effects of foot reflexology can also be powerful, as toxins that have collected in the feet due to gravity are released.
Hand Reflexology
Reflexology maps of the feet and hands are very similar. Which area is used depends on the preference of the patient and the practitioner. Reflexologists often prefer to work on feet because of the larger surface area and the ease of sitting to work on the feet while a client relaxes in a reclining chair or on a massage table. However, work on the hands can be equally effective.
A skilled reflexologist can ease a headache with gentle pressure on a small area of the thumb. Reflexology on the hands or feet can ease the symptoms of digestive problems, respiratory issues, depression, anxiety, and many other health problems. Reflexology on the hands in particular can also be highly beneficial to ease pain and increase mobility for individuals suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome or arthritis.
Ear Reflexology
Reflexology was "discovered" in the United States in the early 20th century. In 1917, Dr. William Fitzgerald identified five vertical zones in the hands and feet that corresponded with vertical areas of the body. In 1924, Dr. Joe Shelby Riley identified horizontal zones in the feet and hands that also seemed to parallel zones of the body. Eunice Ingham, now considered the mother of modern reflexology, worked with both of these doctors and integrated their theories into the first foot map.
Ear reflexology came along a bit later in 1957, when a French doctor named Paul Nogier identified a reflexology map on the outer ear that resembled a human fetus with its head down. Soon after, a research team in China identified a similar map. As with foot and hand reflexology, maps of reflexology points on the ears have evolved over time and are now very detailed. Ear reflexology differs somewhat from hand and ear reflexology because it requires extremely light pressure and tends to involve more holding of points rather than massage-like stroking or "thumb-walking". The practice of ear reflexology is not as widespread as foot or hand reflexology.
Some reflexology practitioners perform foot, hand and ear reflexology together in the same session. They view the feet, hands and ears as "terminals" and believe that clearing blockages in all three terminals maximizes the impact of their work. Others focus exclusively on one area for an entire session, most commonly the feet, believing that longer and more focused work in one area is more effective than brief attention to all three areas. Still others decide where and how to work depending on the specific needs of the client. Only through training and experience can you determine which approach to reflexology will work best for you.
Learn about the history of reflexology and why reflexology's benefits have stood the test of time.
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Sources:
Seattle Reflexology & Massage Center, 2010
American Academy of Reflexology, 2010
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