REFLEXOLOGY: HOLISTICE APPROACH TO BETTER HEALTH &
VITALITY
Ken Orr, LMT & Reflexologist
(Third
in a Series on Reflexology, Ancient Healing Art & 21st Century
Science)
As an ancient art which embraces holistic healing techniques,
Reflexology treatments can recharge the
nervous system and gently spark the body’s natural healing processes.
Through methodical, direct pressure techniques, reflex responses (unconscious, involuntary {natural}
responses to treatment) stimulate the lymph and circulatory systems; help
release toxins (through the body’s elimination systems); and tune up biochemical systems and
organs.
The stimulation/sedation of endocrine glands can improve the
function of organs and the body’s energy vitality. On a deeper level,
treatments unblock neural pathways and Meridians, allowing the more
clear/uninterrupted flow of Chi within
the entire body. The aim of Reflexology is to treat the whole person
(mind, body and spirit) and to spur mental, emotional, physical health and well
being within the entire body and human organism.
(Click on Pictures for
Larger View of Diagrams of Lymphatic Systems)
SOME THOUGHTS ON SUBTLE ENERGIES, THE HUMAN ORGANISM & BODY
SYSTEMS
The subtle energies that circulate
through the body (known as Chi), still somewhat elusive to modern science, help keep the body, mind and spirit at a higher vibrational level. Higher vibrations translate into
better health and energy vitality. Vibration frequencies
have been measured in close proximity to acupuncture/nerve
points. (These points light up where
major congestive conditions are found.) This nutritive and organizing life force (Chi) is linked
by electrical circuits to
every part of the body through a vast
The flow of Chi through the Meridians
has a biorhythmic pattern. In Chinese medicine, a biological clock
indicates the peak and low frequency periods for various organs. (For
example, peak periods for the liver {1-3am}; bladder {3-5pm}; kidneys {5-7pm};
lung {3-5am}.) The principles that influence the flow of energy in the
Universe are applicable to the human multi-dimensional energy system. As
the Universe is ever-changing, so is the human body. A polarity exists in
nature, Yin and Yang are polar opposites. The balance of these natural forces helps thebody achieve and maintain health. (More on Chinese energy
medicine and physiology in the next article.)
(Click on Picture for
larger image in Yin/Yang and
Western science (through biochemical,
neurological, molecular, electromagnetic and other
research findings) recognizes the human body (mind/body) as an ever-changing
and dynamic energy system. In a short time, it can restore itself.
- Stomach lining replaced every five days
- Skin replaced every five weeks
- Bone replaced every three months
- Body protein replaced every six months
- 98% of total atoms replaced in one year
- One trillion body cells are constantly
changing
SOME FACTS ABOUT REFLEXOLOGY & BODY SYSTEMS
The nervous system (neurotransmitters/electrical system) is the most complex
system in the human body (110 billion nerve cells). Every part of
the body functions by messages carried along neural pathways
(neurotransmitters). Without nerve supply, the body will not
function. The goal of Reflexology (along with other health options) is to
help bring the body, mind and spirit closer to balance. Neural pathways
are living tissue and electrical channels.
When these pathways are blocked or
impaired, this is a mirror of imbalance, disharmony, disease or illness in the
body. Each foot has approximately 3,500 nerve endings and numerous
nerve (reflex) points that correspond to specific body areas, organs and
glands. Reflexology treatments can address specific imbalances and congested areas. Through stimulating
nerve endings and points, the body can open or clear neural pathways and energy
channels.
The circulatory system contains a 60,000 mile network of veins and
arteries. About 1,000 times daily, blood circulates through this
system. The blood carries nutrients and oxygen to the cells and aids the
removal of wastes and toxins. Stress and tension tighten the
cardiovascular system and restrict blood flow. The deep state of
relaxation gained from Reflexology treatments allows all body systems to
flush. Reduced stress and tension helps the cardiovascular vessels to
improve blood flow naturally. Feet are often the targets of congestions and
imbalances. Chemical deposits settle in the reflex points and nerve
endings in the feet (calcium, lactic or uric acid). These crystallized
deposits are broken down and residue is removed by blood flow.
In Western medicine, the endocrine
system is the chemical system of
the body. Endocrine glands secrete hormone
messengers to regulate body organs and energy vitality. The
endocrine system guides most body functions in concert with the nervous system. (Hormones and neurotransmitters, for the most part, are composed of
similar biochemical structures.) Hormones travel through the
body via the circulatory system and only act on their target organs.
Meridian theory embraces the endocrine system as a central component of the
body’s subtle energies and
multi-dimensional energy system. Each gland is directly
linked to the
In our culture, major imbalances in the
adrenal glands and thyroid are prevalent. Often, long term health issues
become systemic in nature. Anaggressive wellness plan – including such options as
Reflexology treatments/massages, nutritional and biochemical supplements,
stress management and lifestyle changes, proper diet and fitness strategies –
can foster major improvements in health and vitality.
The lymphatic system consists of a
network of lymph vessels (channels and nodes) situated through the entire
body. As a specialized part of the circulatory system, it is vitally
important for waste disposal and the body’s immune response. Among other
functions, this system drains fluid surrounding cells in the body. Lymph
nodes filter lymph to prevent infection from spreading into the blood
stream. Infection and allergies can seriously block the lymph system
which is largely flushed by
lymph fluid and the force of gravity. Congested lymph areas can be cleansed by Reflexology treatments that
are focused on points connected to lymph areas (groin, breast, neck, pelvis,
armpit, abdomen and behind the knees) and lymph vessels heavily concentrated in
the feet and hands. It is most helpful to have treatments in conjunction
with herbal protocols.
SOME FURTHER CONSIDERATIONS FOR
REFLEXOLOGY TREATMENTS
Every foot tells a story and the
seasoned Reflexologist must love all feet
to empower himself/herself to provide the best possible treatment
process. An attentive and meditative approach will enhance the deep state
of relaxation that comes with an effective treatment. Keeping clients in
their respective comfort zones as
much as possible makes it easier for them to tolerate and absorb the more
painful pressure applied to congested areas. These congested areas
contain crystallized deposits or inflammatory conditions.
Often alignment or structural issues
stored in the feet cause discomfort from inflammation. Deep pressure may
initially be painful in inflamed areas. Almost always, subsequent
treatments are less painful (except when severe chronic conditions exist or clients
don’t receive frequent treatments). Reflex points are about the size of
pinheads. When congested, reflex points feel like hardened points or small knots, strings of tiny
beads, soft or fleshy. Sometimes, clients
comment, “It feels like you’re pressing that area with a needle or piece of
glass!” Some general indicators about the client can be discovered
by an examination of the feet. For example, cold or reddish feet signals
poor circulation; sweaty feet indicates hormonal imbalances; limp feet reveals
poor muscle tone; swelling and puffiness might be an internal issue (nerves,
injury, weak support); soreness or pain in specific areas may mirror stress or
strain from alignment issues (low back, hip/knee, ankle, neck).
Some typical reactions and responses to
treatment vary widely, depending on the responsiveness/willingness of the
client, their health issues (mild, acute or chronic), pain threshold and other
factors. The intensity of the reaction depends on the level of
imbalance. Often, clients feel surges
or currents racing through the body. These gentle sparks are signs of
stimulating the neural pathways and Meridians. A common response to
treatment is the activation of
the body’s elimination systems (urinary, digestive, lymphatic, etc.).
A short detox
process may occur causing nausea, dizziness or other
minor symptoms. Energy vitality and a greater sense of well being are
manifestations of an effective Reflexology treatment. Sometimes, clients
with low energy (fatigue and the like) take naps after treatments. If you
become ill or feel bad after
a treatment, it is highly likely that you were already sick or the treatment(s)
brought it (the major imbalance) to the surface.
As a restorative or preventative health
option, Reflexology can be a successful treatment process and a compliment to
any wellness strategy:
“The truly successful treatment is not
one that saves the person from a condition that is in its advanced stage, but
it is one that prevents its development into a serious or chronic condition.”
Avi Grinberg, Holistic Reflexology
Dr. Ralph Stone describes the holistic
goal as follows:
“Health is the natural expression of
mind, body and spirit. Good health is harmony within, peace of mind,
happiness, well-being and centered, the free expression
of Spirit and Soul through mind and body.”
People with serious chronic conditions
have experienced the most significant benefits from regular treatments.
Whether you choose the option of Reflexology for general health maintenance or
to address specific health issues, it is an ancient healing art and 21st
century science.
Ken Orr is a Reflexologist and
LMT. He and his wife, Diane, have a local practice in
The material contained in this
article is provided for information and educational
purposes. It is not intended as medical advice. Licensed Massage
Therapists (LMTs) do not: (1) diagnose illness,
disease, or any other physical/mental disorder; (2) prescribe medical treatment
or pharmaceuticals; perform spinal manipulations. LMTs
and Massage Therapy are not a substitute for medical examinations or
diagnosis. Consult with a physician when you may have a disease, illness
or injury. All client information is held in strict confidence.