WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY?

Reflexology is a complementary therapy which involves using the thumb and fingers to apply pressure to the feet/hands. There are points on the hands and feet that relate to organs, glands and systems of the body. These points are known as reflex points. A reflex is when stimulation at one point brings about a response in another area.

Reflexology treatment to the hands is not as common as that to the feet, many reflexology practitioners rarely use treatment to the hands even though most will have had an introduction to hand reflexology during their training. The workshop is a detailed guide to using hand reflexology and will be of interest to both practitioners wishing to offer this form of treatment and to those without formal training in reflexology, but who might like to try some treatment on themselves.

The body is programmed to heal itself and this is happening all the time whether it is a cut or a bruise in the tissues, a broken bone or a torn muscle. The systems and organs in the body are constantly working together to heal and repair.

The body is like a complex machine in which all parts need to be working together to maintain the balance. If this balance is disrupted for any reason then the component parts will function less effectively. When a blockage occurs, caused by stress, injury or disease in one part, then the rest of the body compensates and works harder to try to achieve balance. This may eventually cause further problems.

The aim of reflexology is to treat the whole person, body, mind and spirit, to induce a state of balance, thus stimulating the body’s potential to heal itself both physically and emotionally.

The position of reflex points may vary depending on which chart you are using. The charts are useful as they show the parts of the hands/feet that relate to the organs etc. The charts are used as guides and with practice you will instinctively know the areas of the hands/feet that relates to the organs.

HOW DOES REFLEXOLOGY WORK?

Reflexology is based on the ancient Chinese belief that energy flows around the body. This energy is known as Chi and when the energy is flowing freely around the body we are well, balanced and in harmony with our environment physically, mentally and emotionally.  If the energy becomes blocked illness may result.