The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Reflexology
The Power of Touch

ORIGINS

The term reflexology has two meanings. It is both the study of the reflexes of the body and how they affect behavior, and a massage technique that involves finger pressure, particularly applied to the hands and feet. The basis of this alternative medicine technique is related to the foundations of acupressure and acupuncture (see entries in this chapter): Practitioners believe certain points on the hands and feet correspond to different areas of the body, and that introducing pressure to those areas can treat ailments and conditions that manifest elsewhere.

HISTORY/LORE

Modern reflexology has its roots in various ancient bodywork practices, including acupressure and massage. Though the practice was not documented in any specific way until relatively recently, there is significant evidence that reflexology was practiced by a number of ancient civilizations. In Egypt’s Saqqara burial ground, the Tomb of Ankhmahor, also known as the “Physician’s Tomb,” which dates back to 2330 B.C.E., includes an image that depicts two men having their hands and feet massaged.

USES

Like other forms of massage, reflexology is something anyone can try, either on their own or with a certified specialist. There are lots of resources available online, from self-treatment techniques to listings of reflexologists in your area. The Reflexology Association of America, a nonprofit member organization whose mission is “to elevate and standardize the quality of reflexology services available to the public,” offers lots of information on its website (http://reflexology-usa.org). The International Institute of Reflexology website (www.reflexology-usa.net) is another great resource, with reflexology charts and a list of trained reflexologists by state.