Suitable for complete beginners / novices. This Introductory Workshop in Reflexology is ideal for those who would like to be able to use reflexology on their friends and families and is of particular interest to those considering a career in the Holistic / Complementary / Alternative Therapy / Massage sector. An ideal taster course prior to starting our VTCT Level 3 Diploma in Reflexology
‘Reflexology’ – translated literally is the study of the ‘reflexes’ – which are involuntary, unconscious responses to stimuli.
The Practice of Reflexology as a therapy is based on the principle that reflexes or areas of the feet, hands and other parts of the body relate to internal organs and other structures (Crane 1997).
Reflexology is a way of activating the body’s own healing power and is a recently “rediscovered” ancient therapy.
In 1887 a tomb was discovered in Egypt (the ‘Physicians tomb’), which dates back to 2330 BC. On the wall of the tomb were pictures of people appearing to be receiving some kind of foot and and hand treatment, thought to be either foot massage or a form of reflexology.
Ancient Roman writings describe healing methods which are what we know today as Reflex zone therapy.
Massaging of reflex zones is known to have been practiced by Native American tribes and according to Wagner(1987) was redefined by the Incas and handed down over 1000’s of years.
Today, Reflex zone massage is still practiced by Native Americans living on reserves. They use it to heal disease but mainly for pain relief (Wagner 87).
It was from these practices that Dr.William Fitzgerald brought zone therapy to our modern world.
Fitzgerald (1872-1942), an ear, nose and throat specialist, discovered zone therapy whilst operating on his patients. He found that when he applied pressure to certain areas of the body, pain relief would result in another part .
He had rediscovered the ancient art of Accupressure. He developed a new zone system by dividing the body into ten zones from the top of the head to the tips of the toes.
Eunice Ingham developed this theory further by mapping out the zones on the feet.
Reflexologists, using their thumbs and fingers, apply a variety of techniques to apply pressure to the reflexes. The aim is to restore balance and release blocked subtle energy.
