Reflexology: An Ancient, But Newly Rediscovered Alternative Heath Therapy
by Steve White, B.A., B.S., RRT
Nationally Certified Reflexologist is on staff at Peace of Mind Emporium Rutland Vermont.

How many times have you heard the old saying "when your feet hurt, you hurt all over?" Does this suggest there may be some truth in the very old, but yet newly rediscovered alternative health practice of reflexology?

Along with the highly advanced medical technologies and pharmaceuticals now available in the health field industry, many Americans are turning to ancient, alternative, non-invasive, drug-free therapies. Research reveals as many as four out of ten Americans have at least tried one or more of these modalities which include, but are not limited to herbs, acupuncture, reiki, aromatherapy, yoga and reflexology. Their reasons for straying from the traditional western medical approaches are many and varied. Persons living with chronic illnesses have often reached out to try alternative therapies in hopes of relieving symptoms associated with their conditions that have been given little relief with conventional treatments. One of these alternative modalities that has shown to be very effective is reflexology in helping provide release of stress, and reduction in various symptoms.

Reflexology is an art and a science which deals with the principle that reflexes on the hands and feet are related to all organs, glands and body parts. By stimulating these reflexes the body responds by initiating its own healing response and then it can heal itself naturally. Exactly how the physiological process works is unknown.

Stress creates tension in our bodies and minds which can result in physical illness and disease. Most (75-80%) of all medical conditions are the direct result of acute or chronic stress. Reflexology can alleviate these conditions by decreasing tension. Decreased tension results in improved blood and nerve supply which help our organs, glands and body tissue normalize themselves.

Historical research reveals reflexology is centuries old. Ancient Egyptians utilized this therapy as early as 2330 B.C. In the tomb of Ankhmahor, an Egyptian physician, a wall painting depicts a man working on someone's feet. A translation reads "Don't hurt me." The practitioner replies: "I shall act so you praise me."

Evidence also suggest that the Chinese and Far Eastern Indians practiced reflexology during a similar time period. More recently, during the 1800's, the British, German and Russians explored the relationship of applying pressure on the feet to stimulate other body parts.

Similarly, the Cherokee Indians, for centuries, have practiced, and still do, a type of foot therapy. They demonstrate their belief in the power of the flow of healing universal energy through the feet in their creed: " Your feet walk upon the earth and through them your spirit is connected to the universe. Your feet are your contact with the earth and the energies that flow through it."

During the 1930's and 1940's an American named Eunice Ingham pioneered reflexology into the practice that is being widely used today. Through her research, experimentation, documentation, wisdom and dedication she refined this ancient science. The Original Ingham Method of Reflexology is now taught and practiced worldwide. Since her death in 1974 reflexology has continued to expand under the mentoring of her nephew, Dwight Byers, president of the International Institute of Reflexology.

What medical conditions can reflexology help? Testimonials to reflexology attribute this therapy to curing everything from hiccups and headaches to neuropathy and constipation. The entire list of documented ailments is quite extensive, as any good reference book on the subject will reveal.

Reflexology, like other alternative therapies, may be used in conjunction with conventional medicine. Reflexology cannot cure, in itself, every disease and ailment. As with any therapy there are definite limitations. Reflexology cannot cure cancer, but can help the person living with cancer cope better by decreasing pain and helping someone relax, sleep better, feel less stressed and more at ease, stimulate circulation and digestion, and relieve many other symptoms. Reflexology cannot cure emphysema, but can help someone suffering with this disease by reducing anxiety and helping to ease their breathing. Reflexology, with its symptom-reducing abilities cannot harm, only help.

Each person must approach their health as a whole unit consisting of mind, body, and spirit. The use of alternative therapy should be as a complementary medicine, not as a total substitute, or as the only therapy. Each person must find the right combination of practices they believe will alleviate their condition or disease, and more importantly allow the body-mind-spirit to heal itself. Reflexology is just one of these important alternative therapies which is effective, promotes self-healing and has no side effects.

If you are considering Reflexology as a tool for symptom reduction, or to promote or maintain wellness, contact a certified reflexologist. There is one national certification board for reflexologists in the United States, the National Reflexology Certification Board in Arvada Colorado. (ph 303-933-6921) Certified reflexologists must pass a rigorous national written and clinical examination to become members.

For a consultation and/or to treat yourself to a relaxing and invigorating session, try this very old, but newly rediscovered therapy. Remember-"Happy feet, happy body!"