Originally known as zone or reflex therapy, Reflexology is a holistic healing method that assists the healing of the body through the use of therapeutic pressure and massage of the reflex points found on the feet and the hands. There is evidence that the art and science of Reflexology was used by the ancient Egyptians, Japanese, and Indian cultures as a tool to encourage and facilitate excellent health. Reflexology teaches that one's vital energy circulates throughout the body, permeating every living cell and tissue. If the energy becomes blocked or congested the part of the body relating to the blockage is affected. Reflex points, particularly those in the feet, correspond to various organ systems and tissues. Upon stimulating and releasing the reflex points in a precise manner, life force circulation is restored and the body can heal itself naturally.
Considered an exceptionally effective method for activating the healing powers of the body, modern Reflexology is both a science and a healing art. As a science, Reflexology requires dedicated study, technical knowledge, practice, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology is most effective when the therapist works with intention, dedication, and gentle loving care. Modern Reflexology now generally includes the use of essential oils during the session, as the reflex points are particularly receptive to this potent plant medicine. When skill and care are combined with sound healing practices, Reflexology can help to facilitate healing and encourage overall well-being.
Science teaches that one's vital energy circulates between the various organs while saturating every living cell and tissue. It has long been known that good health depends on the dynamic balance and natural functioning of all the body systems. This ever-changing state of balance is called homeostasis. In order for the body to function optimally, all systems must act in synergistic harmony. If the energy becomes blocked or congested in one part of the body the whole organism is affected. Through the use of precisely applied techniques and oils, blockages can be released and health can unfold naturally.
Stress reduction is an important benefit of the practice, as stress is the source of many (if not all) the imbalances in our bodies. Reflexology assists in alleviating the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation. The nervous system is allowed to rest and consequently functions in a more balanced state. As the body moves toward homeostasis, healing can take effect. Lavender essential oil is fabulous for decreasing stress and facilitating relaxation. 3-4 drops of therapeutic grade Lavender essential oil in the palm of your hand and then gently holding your friends or clients feet with the intention of sending them love and relaxation. Other relaxing essential oils include: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, Rose, and Roman Chamomile. A lovely calming blend includes equal parts Lavender and Chamomile in the carrier oil of choice. Rose essential oil is fabulous for opening the energy of the heart.
Reflexology can also assist in the cleansing and purification of toxic energy, the revitalization of vigor, and the balance and integration of the natural rhythms of the body. Gravity pulls toxins downward to the feet therefore reflexology is a natural tool for helping to clear this old energy. A skilled reflexologist can pull these impurities from the feet using both proper massage techniques and cleansing, detoxifying essential oils.
Another gentle tool that one can use on a regular basis is foot baths. Many reflexologists recommend these to their clients to assist in the on-going healing process; this can also be done toward the end of a reflexology session. The use of warm epsom salt foot baths can help to facilitate the release of old energy. Add a couple of ounces of epsom salts to warm water and then add a few drops of your favorite therapeutic grade essential oils. Soak the feet for 15 minutes and then gently dry with a towel and cover the feet with warm socks while resting for another 15 minutes. A lovely blend is 2 parts Lavender and 1 part Rosemary to help clear nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that only a few drops are needed for the greatest healing effect. The essential oils can be blended the essential oils with a small amount of carrier before going in the water (jojoba oil, for example) for the most gentle action on the skin's surface.
As an energy-enhancer, Reflexology works on with subtle energy flows to revitalize the body's natural internal healing mechanisms. For those in need of revitalization, choose essential oils that are uplifting such as Black Spruce, Bergamot, or Rosemary. Rosemary blends nicely with Lavender for clearing nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that a little goes a long way - small amounts, even just a 'hint' of a good aromatic oil will have therapeutic effects. Bergamot is considered relaxing, calming and restoring. It may also help to lift depression as it encourages the flow of Chi (life-force). Always dilute Bergamot in a carrier before applying to the feet or skin, and any other essential oils that may be considered exceptionally strong or potent.
As energy pathways are opened, strengthened, and brought into balance, the body returns to its natural rhythms and energy flows naturally. The body, mind, and spirit are brought back into balance. Rose essential oil (Rose 'otto') is a wonderful oil for balancing and integrating the energy pathways of the body. Facilitate this healing by gently 'anointing' your friends feet with Rose oil and then along them to bask in the high vibration healing of this beautiful flower. Ylang Ylang can also be a perfect balancer, bringing the masculine and feminine energies into harmony. Remember, with all the oils, the tiniest amounts will have important healing action; the aromas should always be subtle and pleasant for both the client and practitioner.
As the client's healing process takes place, both the practitioner and the client benefit from the experience of well-being. This well-being naturally extends into into other areas of the clients and practitioners life and the benefit is then expanded out into the world. Reflexology is an fabulous and dynamic tool that can assist oneself and one's client in becoming independently healthy. It is my opinion after having benefited from both receiving and sharing reflexology sessions with many clients, friends, and family that Reflexology is an exceptional natural tool. Experience for yourself and enjoy.
Considered an exceptionally effective method for activating the healing powers of the body, modern Reflexology is both a science and a healing art. As a science, Reflexology requires dedicated study, technical knowledge, practice, and skill. As a healing art, Reflexology is most effective when the therapist works with intention, dedication, and gentle loving care. Modern Reflexology now generally includes the use of essential oils during the session, as the reflex points are particularly receptive to this potent plant medicine. When skill and care are combined with sound healing practices, Reflexology can help to facilitate healing and encourage overall well-being.
Science teaches that one's vital energy circulates between the various organs while saturating every living cell and tissue. It has long been known that good health depends on the dynamic balance and natural functioning of all the body systems. This ever-changing state of balance is called homeostasis. In order for the body to function optimally, all systems must act in synergistic harmony. If the energy becomes blocked or congested in one part of the body the whole organism is affected. Through the use of precisely applied techniques and oils, blockages can be released and health can unfold naturally.
Stress reduction is an important benefit of the practice, as stress is the source of many (if not all) the imbalances in our bodies. Reflexology assists in alleviating the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation. The nervous system is allowed to rest and consequently functions in a more balanced state. As the body moves toward homeostasis, healing can take effect. Lavender essential oil is fabulous for decreasing stress and facilitating relaxation. 3-4 drops of therapeutic grade Lavender essential oil in the palm of your hand and then gently holding your friends or clients feet with the intention of sending them love and relaxation. Other relaxing essential oils include: Sandalwood, Frankincense, Blue Tansy, Rose, and Roman Chamomile. A lovely calming blend includes equal parts Lavender and Chamomile in the carrier oil of choice. Rose essential oil is fabulous for opening the energy of the heart.
Reflexology can also assist in the cleansing and purification of toxic energy, the revitalization of vigor, and the balance and integration of the natural rhythms of the body. Gravity pulls toxins downward to the feet therefore reflexology is a natural tool for helping to clear this old energy. A skilled reflexologist can pull these impurities from the feet using both proper massage techniques and cleansing, detoxifying essential oils.
Another gentle tool that one can use on a regular basis is foot baths. Many reflexologists recommend these to their clients to assist in the on-going healing process; this can also be done toward the end of a reflexology session. The use of warm epsom salt foot baths can help to facilitate the release of old energy. Add a couple of ounces of epsom salts to warm water and then add a few drops of your favorite therapeutic grade essential oils. Soak the feet for 15 minutes and then gently dry with a towel and cover the feet with warm socks while resting for another 15 minutes. A lovely blend is 2 parts Lavender and 1 part Rosemary to help clear nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that only a few drops are needed for the greatest healing effect. The essential oils can be blended the essential oils with a small amount of carrier before going in the water (jojoba oil, for example) for the most gentle action on the skin's surface.
As an energy-enhancer, Reflexology works on with subtle energy flows to revitalize the body's natural internal healing mechanisms. For those in need of revitalization, choose essential oils that are uplifting such as Black Spruce, Bergamot, or Rosemary. Rosemary blends nicely with Lavender for clearing nervous exhaustion. Remember with essential oils that a little goes a long way - small amounts, even just a 'hint' of a good aromatic oil will have therapeutic effects. Bergamot is considered relaxing, calming and restoring. It may also help to lift depression as it encourages the flow of Chi (life-force). Always dilute Bergamot in a carrier before applying to the feet or skin, and any other essential oils that may be considered exceptionally strong or potent.
As energy pathways are opened, strengthened, and brought into balance, the body returns to its natural rhythms and energy flows naturally. The body, mind, and spirit are brought back into balance. Rose essential oil (Rose 'otto') is a wonderful oil for balancing and integrating the energy pathways of the body. Facilitate this healing by gently 'anointing' your friends feet with Rose oil and then along them to bask in the high vibration healing of this beautiful flower. Ylang Ylang can also be a perfect balancer, bringing the masculine and feminine energies into harmony. Remember, with all the oils, the tiniest amounts will have important healing action; the aromas should always be subtle and pleasant for both the client and practitioner.
As the client's healing process takes place, both the practitioner and the client benefit from the experience of well-being. This well-being naturally extends into into other areas of the clients and practitioners life and the benefit is then expanded out into the world. Reflexology is an fabulous and dynamic tool that can assist oneself and one's client in becoming independently healthy. It is my opinion after having benefited from both receiving and sharing reflexology sessions with many clients, friends, and family that Reflexology is an exceptional natural tool. Experience for yourself and enjoy.
About the Author:
The author has made available reports on specific oils such as patchouli and many other pure essential oils.
