Reflexology is an ancient form of touch therapy, with historical records dating back to 2330 BC in the form of encryptions on the ancient Egyptian burial tomb of Ankhmahor.

Reflexology is also called reflex zone therapy, with the principle that the body is divided into ten zones. This zone division places each of our fingers and toes into ten linear zones, aiding the ability to locate specific reflexes in the feet and hands, relating to every part of the body.

There are over 7,000 nerve endings in the feet with each foot or hand mirroring half of the body. The nerves in the body can be compared to an electrical system, with connections and pathways to all the systems and organs in the body.

For example, one of these systems, the endocrine system, is made up of all the glands that produce hormones responding to and triggering feedback responses, through chemical and electrical transmitters. The endocrine glands of the body are like system controls, monitored by many finely tuned feedback mechanisms.

Stress levels, our diet and the way we live affect the function of these glands, which is reflected in the corresponding reflex zone, and so can be noticed upon manual assessment of the soft tissues in the feet and hands. Reflexology therefore suggests that specific touch can either stimulate or calm glandular activity, helping to bring about balance throughout the systems of the body.

SOFT TISSUE WORK

In reflexology the practitioner works systematically with their finger tips and thumbs to assess the state of all areas of the soft tissues of the foot and ankle. Any areas of tension or altered texture and painful or tender areas are noted. The practitioner works with specific touch on these points gaining feedback from the client throughout the procedure. In hand reflexology the same processes are applied to the hands and wrists.

ORTHO-BIONOMY

Ortho-bionomy has osteopathic roots, and is based on the body's ability to self correct. It is used by osteopaths, massage therapists and reflexologists to help both relieve pain and encourage joints to align into their natural positions. It is a very gentle method, with no crunching or clicking of joints or bones. The most comfortable position for the joint is found by the practitioner assisting the client by supporting the joint and gently manoevering it through a passive range of motion. Movement is directed away from pain, until the most comfortable position is found. This position is then exaggerated by the practitioner by gently pushing into or pulling out of the joint for up to 30 seconds. There is often a spontaneous release experienced by the client. This is observed by the practitioner who can then measure for any increase in range of movement following the procedure.

In lay terms, the practitioner causes a new nervous message to be sent from the client's problem area to the brain, which triggers a new response resulting in a release of the muscle and ligament tension which had been causing pain.

Ortho-bionomy is useful in conjunction with joint mobilisation and reflexology. If a finger joint for example is found to have restricted movement that does not improve with gentle passive articulation of the joint, ortho-bionomy can be used to increase the range of motion, often reducing previous stiffness.

JOINT MOBILISATION

When working with the hands and feet, the reflexologist aims to mobilise the joints. The active range of movement is first observed, and then the practitioner gently passively moves each joint, noticing any restricted areas, following with ortho-bionomy if indicated.

WHAT TO EXPECT / SELF CARE

The effects of a reflexology treatment may last several days and longer for some people.

Sometimes reflexology can encourage the release of toxins within your body. This may present as cold or flu-like symptoms or headaches. Therefore it is important to look after yourself, make sure you drink plenty of water and rest if needed.

Generally reflexology is accompanied with a sense of well being, and aims to restore balance and harmony to your whole being (body, mind and spirit). It is important that you allow time and space after a treatment for the benefits to keep working.

If you have any concerns please contact Sally.

The first appointment includes a consultation period, whereby the treatment can be tailored specifically for the client. You will be asked questions about your health history, current state of health and well being and your expectations of the reflexology treatment.

Expect the initial session to last between 90 and 120 minutes. Subsequent treatments are usually an hour in duration.

During the treatment the client reclines on a massage table, supported with pillows and covered in a soft blanket.

If you have ticklish feet, please don’t worry; reflexology does not tickle! Clients who have hated their feet being touched generally relax and enjoy the benefits of reflexology.

Reflexology New Zealand Member