The healing art of Reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, with the first recordings of it being in Egypt 2000 BC on the physician to the pharaoh’s tomb Ankmahor.

However, it wasn’t until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as ‘zone therapy’.  He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as Reflexology.  She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body and thus modern-day Reflexology as we know it was born.

Reflexology has been known to man for thousands of years. It is a natural healing therapy based on the principle that the anatomy of the body is reflected in miniature on reflex zones on the feet and hands. By using specific pressure techniques and massage on these regions, healing is both initiated and accelerated in the corresponding area of the body.  For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique.  Sensitive, trained hands may detect tiny deposits and imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points the Reflexologist can potentially release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions may be eased, and circulation and elimination improved.  This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself and may counteract a lifetime of misuse.

Following illness, stress, injury or disease, the body is in a state of “imbalance”, and vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively.  Reflexology is thought to restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium and encourage healing.

This simple, non-invasive, beautifully balancing therapy brings relief to a wide range of acute and chronic conditions and is suitable for all ages.

There are many theories on how and why Reflexology works but I believe it works in the following ways:

• Promoting deep muscle relaxation which relieves stress and tension and allows the nervous system to calm down and function more normally
• Improving cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation allowing oxygen to reach all the cells
• Stimulating and inhibiting nerve impulses to the brain, particularly involving the autonomic nervous system
• Helping to reduce pain, through gate control theory, and stimulates the production of endorphins
• Effecting the body’s electromagnetic field

Providing many psychological benefits by giving personal attention and care and allowing the client an hour of rest, stillness and quiet in a constantly busy, active, often stressful, world.