The Origins of Feet Reflexology
Today Reflexology has recently become a popular and accepted form of alternative therapy in the West. However, reflexology has been around for as long as 5,000 years. Reflexology first appeared in ancient cultures including China, Egypt, Greece and Japan and in later years traveled to Europe and the United States.
By manipulating the feet to restore balance to the body was a recognized healing technique in ancient China. Experts believe that reflexology dates back to the Fourth Century BC when it originated alongside the ancient Oriental practices of Shiatsu and Acupuncture.
The first evidence of reflexology was the discovery of a wall painting in the tomb of Ankhamahor, “The Tomb of the Physician.” painted on Saqqare, an ancient burial ground for Egyptian pharaohs. This Egyptian painting below was dated 2330 BC
The Egyptians believed the human body is a symphony of vibrations and the internal organs form an intricate orchestra. They believed the organs could be played by manipulating points on the feet.
Reflexology is much more than just a foot massage. This ancient technique can bring your whole body back into balance & can have deep, effective results on a large range of health problems.
The theory is that every part of your body is mapped out on the feet. More than 5,000 years ago, the Indians & Chinese were using reflexology. Pictographs on the wall of an Egyptian tomb show a man being treated with a form of reflexology. It is also a strong tradition in many African tribes & Native American peoples.
The benefits of reflexology include –
Stimulation to the blood circulation & the lymphatic system
Particularly effective for digestive disorders & constipation
Menstrual & menopausal problems respond well
Reduced stress & fatigue
Reduction in frequency & severity of migraines
Improvement in skin conditions
Increased energy
In the West, the fact is that many of us do not know how to give a decent massage, it does not take much effort to give the gift of a good foot massage. After a long hard day of working on your feet, or even perhaps just a long day of standing a foot massage can always hit that sweet spot. Let’s face it! If you were ignored, stuck in a large cotton enclosure, encased in a, hot and sweaty, year old leather and rubber composition all day you’d want some attention.
Okay. All kidding aside, lets look into exactly what a foot massage is. A good foot massage is usually connected with the idea of reflexology, which is a form of therapy that focuses direct pressure to the reflex points on the feet in order to treat aches, pains, and discomforts in the body. Yet, a well done foot massage is in itself different than foot reflexology. Through reflexology you can help treat aches and pains at random. However, a relaxing foot massage focuses much more specifically on bringing balance and harmony to the whole body. Its goal is to relieve the tired foot’s discomfort and allow the receiver the ability to walk away feeling brand new.
A typical, relaxing foot massage requires more than just a good set of strong hands. To give a complete and enjoyable foot massage you will need a few big towels and some foot lubricant. The lubricant will help soften those stubborn calluses and help the feet relax.
First, it is important to wash the feet. Feet seldom get the careful attention as hands do. Also, keep in mind that many people have very ticklish feet, so proceed with caution and avoid any sudden movements. Next, you may begin by using your thumbs to rub the sole of the recipient’s foot in small circles. From there you may work your way from the heel to the balls of the toes. Last, you will want to focus on each individual toe. Placing each toe in-between your index finger and thumb, gently begin to rub each toe, stretching, pulling gently and massaging as you go.
If that proves too difficult for you, give us a call and we will treat your feet to make an appointment for a relaxing, soothing, energizing foot massage. The number for appointments in the Brooklyn area of NYC is on our website.