What is : Reflexology

IN the latest of our beginners' guides to complementary therapies, The Association of Reflexologists starts from the ground up...

The Association of Reflexologists (AoR) is the largest independent, non-profit making organisation for reflexologists in the country. It is a member of the Reflexology Forum - the lead body for reflexology in the UK; the International Council of Reflexologists; the Reflexology in Europe Network; the British Complementary Medicine Association and the Parliamentary Group for Alternative and Complementary Medicine. The AoR was founded in 1984 to establish standards and to provide a network of qualified practitioners to which the public could refer with confidence. The AoR answers some questions about this increasingly popular complementary therapy.

What is reflexology?
While the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as 'zone therapy'. He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930s, Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.

How can reflexology help me?
Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexology has been shown to be effective for: back pain, migraine, infertility, arthritis, sleep disorders, hormonal imbalances, sports injuries, digestive disorders and stress-related conditions.
Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.

Who can benefit from reflexology?
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. After you have completed a course of reflexology treatment, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments in order to maintain health and well-being.

While many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, many doctors, consultants and other health care professionals also recognise reflexology as a well-established, respected and effective therapy. With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important people take more responsibility for their own health care needs, and reflexology helps us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives.

What happens when I go for treatment?
On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.

The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy is unique to each person. A professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.

A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour, and a course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body's needs.

How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is a part of the healing process. This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist because it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.

Where can I find a reflexologist?
The AoR publishes a Referral Register of practitioners for the benefit of members of the public who wish to consult a qualified and experienced AoR reflexologist. This can be found on the Association's website at: www.aor.org.uk.

How can I train to become a reflexologist?
For those wishing to learn to practise the art of reflexology, the AoR publishes a list of recognised and accredited training establishments. It is possible to train while holding a full-time job, although consideration should be given to the significant time commitment required for home study, practice sessions and individual assignments, which are in addition to class sessions. Many schools have a minimum age limit of 18 years.



To contact the Association of Reflexologists, call 0870 567 3320, or visit their website: www.aor.org.uk.