Reflexology

Reflexology

Reflexology

What is it? Reflexology is both a science and an art. It is a method for activating the healing powers of the body through reflex points that connect with every organ, gland, and body part. It works on similar principles to acupuncture. Instead of needles, the fingers, thumbs, and a "reflex tool" are used to seek out sore spots on feet and hands caused by congestion in the corresponding organ, gland, or body part. Reflexology is not to be confused with massage, which focuses on the muscles and ligaments (though some Reflexologists do massage the feet and hands during a session.)

History The ancient healing art of Reflexology has been known to humans for 1,000's of years. It was first practiced by the early Indian, Chinese, and Egyptian peoples.

In 1913 Dr. William Fitzgerald, an American ear, nose and throat surgeon, introduced this therapy to the West. He noted that pressure on specific parts of the body could have an anaesthetizing effect on a related area. Developing this theory, he divided the body into ten equal and vertical zones, ending in the fingers and toes. He concluded that pressure on one part of a zone could affect everything else within that zone. Thus, reflex areas on the feet and hands are linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930's, Eunice Ingham, a therapist, further developed and refined the zone therapy into what is now known as foot Reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot mirrors congestion or tension in a corresponding part of the body. Thus, when you treat the big toes there is a related effect in the brain, and treating the whole foot can have a relaxing and healing effect on the whole body.

Benefits of Reflexology Personally, I have always found that after a particularly hard work day , a a foot massage was the best relaxant I knew. When I first met my mentor and friend, Dr. Ruza Bogdanovich showed me how foot reflexology was not only relaxing, but a powerful diagnostic tool. She found a sore spot in my thyroid reflex point, which corresponded perfectly with my eye pictures that showed a degenerative sign in the thyroid area of my irises (iridology). I told her a western doctor had diagnosed me a few years back with a thyroid disorder.

A few weeks later, my fiancee came back from work with one of his recurring sinus infections. He had difficulty breathing and a massive sinus headache. After working on him for half an hour, he said his sinuses were popping, he could breathe again and he was able to get some sleep. What an exciting discovery-self healing- right at our fingertips!

I believe in the body's ability to heal itself. As a certified Reflexologist, I assist nature and the body by channeling that healing energy.

Michele Nelson lives and practices Reflexology in the Carson Valley area. She recently has been certified in Iridology and is working on her Bachelor's in Holistic Nutrition. You can reach her at 702-782-3287 or email at michele@loloville.com for more information or an appointment.

Your body is held together by the same energy forces that hold the stars, the moon, and the sun in their places. It is controlled by what is the equivalent of an electrical system with many "on" and "off" switches. There are "main circuits" to every organ, gland, and nerve, and these circuits have endings, or pressure points, in your hands, and feet. By massaging, or working, these pressure points, you not only stop pain, but you also send a healing force to all parts of the body by opening up closed "electrical lines" that have shut off the universal life force. When these life lines are closed or clogged, malfunctioning glands and organs make you ill." -Mildred Carter, Body Reflexology, Healing At Your Fingertips.

Reflexology:
1. Reduces stress and induces deep relaxation.
2. Improves circulation
3. Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities
4. Balances the whole system
5. Revitalizes energy
6. Is preventive health care

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