What is exactly is reflexology? This is a question that I get asked on a regular basis.
The technical explanation is that it is a focused pressure technique normally directed at the feet or hands. It is based on zone theory, which is explained as various zones on the feet or hands that correspond to various parts, organs, and glands of the body. When these reflexes are stimulated, the body’s natural electrical energy works along the nervous system to clear any blockages and circulation in enhanced. A session seems to break up deposits (felt as sandy or gritty areas beneath the skin) which interferes with the body’s electrical energy in the nervous system.
To simplify this, imagine your feet are a road maps of your body. Each area of the foot is a landmark for a different organ, body part, or gland. When a reflexologist follows the map, they are looking for rough patches in the roads, traffic jams, if you will. When they stop and apply pressure or “work” these landmark areas on the map, it helps to release the grid lock, or it simply is just providing regular maintenance, and restores the natural flow of electrical energy and circulation, bringing the body back to its normal functioning state.
For me, reflexology is so much more than just a road map. It is a way of connecting to others through the stories of their feet.
Sometimes, these stories are of physical pain from disease, accidents, or years of wear and tear. Digestive issues, autoimmune disease, allergies, chronic disease caused from years of living in stress, personal trauma, constant anxiety, or even post-traumatic stress. The stories that I encounter with each induvial and their feet is unique, and reflexology has become more than just way for me to use my learned skills to make people feel better. It has become a way to connect to people and their health stories. To help them find some personal relief, some rest, some peace, and even some surprise, when I share what secrets their feet have told. My findings can have a way of resonating with each person, and whether they choose to tell me how they can relate to the information, or they simply take it for what it is, they leave feeling relaxed, calm, and refreshed. Their own body is now doing the work to help itself to heal and to restore its natural balance. I have merely been the facilitator, and that is what is rewarding about being a reflexologist. The ability to open a door for a person to start their personal wellness journey or to be part of one that has already been started, is truly a privilege.
My practice allows me to see people realize that the road of recovery, or management of disease doesn’t always have to be impossible. To help them see that together, modern medicine practices and alternative practices can work hand in hand in providing a better quality of life, is exciting.
Although there is much to be learned on exactly how reflexology works, I do know that feet will share with me the road you have travelled…so come tell me your story.
