Definition of Reflexology
Reflexology is the study, art, and science of applying specific touch techniques to the Feet, Hands, and outer Ears where theory suggests there is a pressure map resembling a shape of the Human Body. By applying nurturing touch in specific ways, a wide range of health benefits has been reported.
As of September 7, 2016, for the first time in the history of reflexology in the United States, the three national associations have agreed to a definition that can be used by everyone nationally:
“Reflexology is a protocol of manual techniques, such as thumb and finger-walking, hook and backup and rotating-on-a-point, applied to specific reflex areas predominantly on the feet and hands. These techniques stimulate the complex neural pathways linking body systems, supporting the body’s efforts to function optimally.
The effectiveness of reflexology is recognized worldwide by various national health institutions and the public at large as a distinct complementary practice within the holistic health field.”
Reflexology is a protocol of manual techniques, such as thumb and finger-walking, hook and backup and rotating-on-a-point, applied to specific reflex areas predominantly on the feet and hands. These techniques stimulate the complex neural pathways linking body systems, supporting the body’s efforts to function optimally. The effectiveness is recognized worldwide by various national health institutions and the public at large as a distinct complementary practice within the holistic health field.
Benefits of Reflexology
Thousands of specific benefits have been reported from people who have received sessions. The broad range of reported benefits can be divided into several categories.
- Stress reduction, profound relaxation, for all parts of the body,
- Pain reduction and pain elimination, such as in the neck, shoulders, lower back, and jaw,
- Improved circulation resulting in better oxygen and nutrient supply to all the cells of the body,
- Detoxification,
- Improved organ and gland function,
- Increased range of motion,
- Feeling better, greater productivity, enriched quality of life,
- Normalization of body functions,
- Prevention by reducing accumulated stress in the body before health challenges develop,
- Safe nurturing touch.
Retrieved from http://www.americanacademyofreflexology.com/about-reflexology/, definition by Bill Flocco, Director of American Academy of Reflexology.
A brief history of Reflexology can be found here. http://worldreflexologyfoundation.org/about-reflexology/history/