Reflexology

This web page covers the following subjects:

Description

Reflexology is viewed in the west as a form of massage therapy often referred to as 'zone' therapy.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works through the application of a focused massage on the feet or the hands; encouraging the body to heal itself.

This specific type of massage promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain and aims to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.

The underlying theory behind reflexology is that there are 'reflex' areas on the feet and hands that correspond to specific organs, glands, and other parts of the body.

Using this philosophy, practitioners apply pressure to these reflex areas in order to promote health in the corresponding “mirrored” organs through energy pathways as described in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) techniques.

 

[Return to top]

Benefits

Reflexology is a good all round therapy that aims to improve our general health and sense of well being and has been reported in successfully alleviating:

 

[Return to top]

What to expect in a Reflexology session

On your first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary discussion with you to evaluate your health and lifestyle.

During a treatment you will remove your shoes and socks and sit comfortably in a reclining chair or on a massage table.

Various points are then stimulated on the feet in order to identify areas of tenderness or tension.

Following this, brisk movements are used to warm the feet up. Then pressure is applied from the toes to the heel according to your comfort.

Lotion or oil may be used during the treatment and soothing music may accompany the session to make it as relaxing as possible.

A typical treatment is 45 minutes to 60 minutes long and a course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body's needs.

 

[Return to top]

Styles

Normally reflexology is applied to the feet, although the hands and sometimes the ears are treated with reflexology.

For a list and descriptions of various methods of reflexology used around the world, please see this article on the suite101 web site. Reflexology styles from around the world

 

[Return to top]

Licensing and Regulation

Some jurisdictions will only allow people to practice reflexology providing that they already hold a recognized massage license. Certain European countries also require a proven understanding of anatomy and physiology.

Many reflexology associations in North America, the UK and other countries are working towards creating self-governing associations and encourage national certification standards for reflexology teaching and training.

There are many independent reflexology associations that offer training and certification. It is recommended that your practitioner holds a certification that has been issued by a recognized source.

 

[Return to top]

Reflexology Organizations and Training etc.

American Commission for Accreditation of Reflexology Education and Training (ACARET) is the accreditation organization responsible for setting educational standards for the profession of reflexology in America. ACARET Accreditation is a voluntary, non-governmental peer review process by the reflexology education community. ACARET offers accreditation for reflexology curriculum and awards Accreditation Credentialing of AAEd to reflexology educators. ACARET

The American Reflexology Certification Board is an independent testing agency for the field of Reflexology. ARCB is a legally constituted, non-government entity incorporated under California Law. ARCB

The Reflexology Association of America is a non-profit member association dedicated to unifying all reflexologists for the recognition, excellence and professional strength of Reflexology. It is now organized into a national and state affiliated member organization to ensure the continued growth of the Profession of Reflexology. RAA

The British Reflexology Association is a representative body for persons practising the method of Reflexology as a profession and for students training in the method. The Association also aims to help promote the practice of Reflexology in Great Britain and abroad. British Reflexology Association

Self titled "The Lead Body for Reflexology in the UK". Reflexology Forum UK

The Association of Reflexologists (AoR)....."exists to promote and progress reflexology providing support for over 8,000 members throughout the UK and overseas. Our members are qualified practitioners, or those undergoing training for a professional qualification." Association of Reflexologists

ICR mission statement: To meet the needs of the Reflexology Profession by providing a forum for the exchange of ideas and information; convening biennial international conferences; and promoting World Reflexology Week.. International Council of Reflexologists

Reflexology in Europe Network is a forum for the exchange of ideas, information and experience between its various member organisations in Europe. Reflexology Forum Europe

 

[Return to top]

References

Healing.about.com has a huge list of carefully written articles covering everything about reflexology. healing.about.com

Suite101.com has a broad range of well written articles covering most aspects of Reflexology. Suite101.com Reflexology

A list of quality articles and resources can be found here. organizedwisdom.com Reflexology

An article on theories as to how reflexology works. Please note that this is a series - use the back/forward arrows at the the base of each article. quamut.com

Overview of reflexology including background, principles, treatments and benefits etc. www.indopedia.org - Reflexology articles

Studies on the benefits of reflexology. intelihealth.com

Many articles on reflexology can be found here. articlesbase.com

4holistichealth Web Sites

Sandra Sinclair has been active in alternative health and wellness community events for several years, and is a past President of the Reflexology Association of BC. Sandra is also certified in Indian Head Massage.
Reflexology North Vancouver