About Foot Reflexology

How does reflexology work? Endorphins are produced when the more than 7000 nerve endings in each foot are stimulated, creating a pain relieving experience all over the body and contributing to an enormous sense of well-being. Nerves are soothed. Stress is dissolved .

All the arteries and the veins in the feet and legs receive a pumping action, which enhances the blood flow and accordingly the exchange of oxygen and waste products. Toxins stored and drawn to the feet because of gravity are released into the blood stream, to be filtered out through the kidneys and eliminated from the body. This detoxification effect on the tissues is a prime benefit of foot reflexology. (Drink plenty of water!)

Finally, invisible energy pathways or meridians, which form the basis of Chinese medicine (and are utilized in treatment modalities of acupuncture and shiatsu) are stimulated. Each of these meridians passes through various organ systems in the body and many conclude their voyage in the feet. Stimulating these points creates an overall balancing of energy in the organ systems.

It is believed that foot reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt, over 5000 years ago. A painting from the tomb of a physician (shown here) illustrates the use of pressure point therapy on the hands and feet. This is believed to be one of the healing modalities in use at that time. Later, with influences from India, China, Japan and Europe, reflexology spread throughout the world. It is still very popular in these countries today.

An English physical therapist, Eunice Ingham, working with a medical physician (Dr. William Fitzgerald) at the turn of the 20th century, charted the energy zones and reflexology areas of the hands and later the feet. This led to the modern day map of the body on the feet currently used by reflexologists.

Return to Services Page