REFLEXOLOGY

WHAT IS IT?
Reflexology is a focused pressure technique, usually directed at the feet or hands. It is based on the premise that there are zones and reflexes on different parts of the body which correspond to, and are relative to, all parts, glands and organs of the entire body.  The origin of reflexology is not known, but the earliest attestation to a similar health technique can be found in an illustration on the walls of the physician’s tomb at Saqqara in Egypt. The hieroglyphics in the tomb can be translated to: "Don’t hurt me." The practitioner’s reply is: "I shall act so you praise me." The precise relationship between the ancient art practiced by the early Egyptians, and reflexology as we know it today, is unclear because different practices involving the manipulation of the feet to effect health have been used throughout the world. The precursor of modern reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D. (1872–1942), an ear, nose, and throat specialist, and Dr. Edwin Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body. Reflexology was further developed in the 1930s and 1940s by Eunice D. Ingham (1889–1974), a nurse and physiotherapist. Ingham claimed that the feet and hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into "reflexes" on the feet. It was at this time that "zone therapy" was renamed reflexology.

HOW DOES IT WORK?
When the reflexes are stimulated, the body's natural electrical energy works along the nervous system to clear any blockages in the corresponding zones. A reflexology session seems to break up deposits (felt as a sandy or gritty area under the skin) which may interfere with this natural flow of the body's energy. Manipulating specific reflexes removes stress, activating a parasympathetic response in the body to enable the disharmonies to be released by a physiological change in the body. With stress removed and circulation improved, the body is allowed to return to a state of homeostasis, or balance.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
Reflexology demonstrates four main benefits: (1) promotes relaxation and removal of stress, (2) enhances circulation, (3) assists the body to normalize metabolism naturally, and (4) complements other healing therapies.

Interested in wholistic wellness?  Want to relieve stress, relax and revitalize?  Experience the benefits of natural healing with a foot reflexology treatment by Lorraine Schmid, Registered Reflexology Practitioner (RRPr).  Trained by and registered with the Ontario College of Reflexology, Lorraine is certified to practice this ancient art of healing.  Sessions are available at Thyme Again Gardens, and last approximately 60 minutes.  Call for an appointment!