By Janet Berg

Reflexology is based on the belief that stimulation to the reflex areas of the feet and/or hands encourages the body's innate powers of self healing, restoring free energy flow and balance. It's an ancient practice that might have originated in China more than 4,000 years ago.

The oldest documentation is a pictograph found in the tomb of an Egyptian physician (c. 2500-2330 B.C.) which depicts two men working on the hands and feet of two other men. A form of reflexology has been practiced in Europe since the 14th century.

Modern reflexology divides the body into ten longitudinal zones from front to back. The practitioner treats the entire body by stimulating points along the lines of each zone on the tops and bottoms of the feet and the palms and backs of the hands; these points correspond to various internal organs. When a particular area is sensitive or the therapist feels a "grittiness" beneath the skin, pressure is applied to break up these granular accumulations, resulting in increased blood supply and energy flow which help flush out toxins.

Reflexologists believe that stimulation of the reflex areas affects the internal organs through simple reflex action (a reflex is an automatic, involuntary response to a stimulus). When pressure is applied to these areas, thousands of nerve endings emit electrochemical impulses that are conducted to the central nervous system, opening and clearing neural pathways, and sent to the various organs.

If you're pregnant, on medication or your health is compromised, check with your health practitioner before undergoing a reflexology session. ©

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The Road to Wellness (November 21, 2001)
The Road to Wellness (November 8, 2001)

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