Review

Cop

y

Reflexology is the systematic applica-tion of pressure techniques to the feet andhands. Research has shown the specifictechniques of reflexology to be effective inmany ways: creating relaxation, easingpain and ameliorating symptoms of healthconcerns. Whether you’re seeking a treat or atreatment, luxuriating in relaxation oraddressing your health concerns, reflexol-ogy can help. The long time traditionalpractice has become a complement to med-icine as research has documented its effec-tiveness. By choosing to use reflexology, youtake a step toward a fitter and healthieryou. Improvement in the quality of yourlife is at hand. Try reflexology today—andjoin millions of others.

How long does it take to see results?

Research shows thata single reflexology session:

• creates relaxation• reduces anxiety• diminishes pain• improves blood flow to the kidneys, intestines,and feet• improves blood flow to parts of the brain corre-sponding to the reflex areas on the foot• decreases the heart rate and blood pressure• increases oxygen saturation and lowers respira-tory rate.

Research shows thata series of reflexology sessions:

Improves the body overall by helping every partof it, for example:• improving the functioning of the kidneys(waste product removal, red blood cell level,immune system)• impacting the digestive system and relievingconstipation in children, women, and the elderly• easing difficult urination for men and inconti-nence in women• easing PMS and menopause for women andprostate problems for men• creating changes in physiological measure-ments of the pancreas.

What is Reflexology?

Order Today(your name here)

(your phone number here)

What can I expect from a reflexology session?

During a reflexology session, the reflexolo-gist will apply pressure techniques to your barefeet or hands. You’ll be seated comfortably in arecliner or lying down facing the reflexologist. Atypical session lasts for 30 minutes to an hour.

How can reflexology help me?

Whether you’re seeking to relax, renew andrejuvenate or to care for a recent or chronic con-dition, choosing reflexology helps you take anactive role in your health. From the moment the reflexologist’s handsstart their work, the relaxation begins. Studiesshow this to be true as well as demonstrating thata reflexology session provides a respite fromboth physical and mental aspects of stress. Consider a series of sessions if you have ahealth concern or if you’d like to help your bodywork better. Such frequency and consistencyhelp the body do both. “My feet feel like I’m walking on pillows” isa comment frequently heard following a reflex-ology session. Foot reflexology makes for hap-pier feet especially if they face a standingprofession or the challenge of finding comfort-able shoes. Feel good, boost your system and help yourbody work better: you’ll leave your reflexologysession with a smile on your face and a spring inyour step knowing you’re on a path to wellness.

© Kunz & Kunz 2010

, For more info, see www.reflexology-research.com, Photo: DK Publishers

Reflexology is a complement to medical care. It should not be construed as medical advice or considered to be a

replacement for medical help.

Review

Copy

What is the history of reflexology?

Around the world and throughout history,reflexology has been rediscovered as a healthpractice time and time again. Archeologicalevidence in Egypt, China and Japan points toancient reflexology medical systems. In the West, the concept of reflexologybegan to emerge in the 19th century, basedon European and Russian research into thenervous system and the reflex (think Pavlov).American developments in charts and tech-niques launched today’s reflexology. Mostrecently, reflexology use has spread globallywith people all over the world seeking fit-ness, health and medical results.

Is there research in reflexology?

More than 170 studies of reflexology'seffects have been conducted with 90% show-ing a positive result. Effectiveness was dem-onstrated as symptoms were ameliorated forhealth concerns stemming from tension (e. g.elevated blood pressure, anxiety, constipa-tion, headaches, labor times for the pregnant)and pain relief. Further responses (e. g. forthose with asthma, diabetes, cholesterol,incontinence) were found to require anappropriate number and frequency of ses-sions.

How Do I Get Results?

As you consider how to get results withreflexology, consider what you’re seekingand how to focus on the reflexology solution.Is it self-help, at-home help or professionalservices that will achieve your goal(s)? Areflexologist serves as a resource ready toeducate and help with such decisions.

What are the benefits of reflexology?

As proven by research, the benefits ofreflexology include:• relaxation• pain reduction• amelioration of symptoms for health con-cerns• improvement in blood flow• impact on physiological measures (e. g. blood pressure and cholesterol; measurements by ECG, EEG, and fMRI)• improved post-operative recovery and pain reduction• enhancement of medical care (e. g. diabetes, phantom limb pain, and hemodialysis patients)• adjunct to mental health care (e. g. depres-sion, anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder)• complement to cancer care (pain, nausea, vomiting, anxiety)• easier birthing and post-partum recovery.

How does reflexology work?

Pressure sensors in the feet and hands area part of the body's reflexive response thatmakes possible the “fight or flight” reactionto danger. Feet ready to flee and hands readyto fight communicate with the body's internalorgans to make possible either eventuality.The sudden adrenal surge that enables a per-son to lift a car is an example of this reaction.Reflexology taps into this reflex network,providing an exercise of pressure sensors andthus the internal organs to which they areclosely tied. The net result is that reflexology impactsmultiple mechanisms of the body, helping itre-set tension levels, relieve pain, improveblood flow, and create better communicationwithin the nervous system. One’s body, thus,achieves a homeostatic balance, better ableto cope with the stresses of life.

Reflexology Chart The reflexology chart mir-rors a reflection of the bodyon the feet and hands, leftfoot representing the body’sleft half and the right foot itsright half. In reflexology practice,technique is applied to therelevant reflex area(s) toprompt a change in therelated part of the body.Research has demonstratedsuch effects for several reflexareas and their reflected partsof the body.