Reflexology is a complementary therapy which is used to help heal the whole person and not just the existing symptoms. It is primarily practised on the feet but can also be performed on the hands and other areas of the body.

Reflexology is thought to have its origins in ancient China and Egypt but was only introduced into the modern day Western world by Dr William Fitzgerald at the beginning of the 20th century. He applied ten zones or energy channels to the surface of the body which were considered to be paths along which a person's vital energy or 'energy force' flowed. The zones ended at the hands and feet and so the application of pressure on these zones could relieve pain elsewhere in the body. This 'zone therapy' was further developed by Eunice Ingham in 1930 into what is today known as reflexology.

Years of research and practical application in reflexology have shown that the body's anatomy is exactly reflected in the soles of the foot. Imagine a person standing in front of you with the sole of a foot superimposed behind them, each organ in their body will be reflected in the foot, for example the head area is represented by the toes, and the pelvic organs by the heel.

The energy flow in the body, that penetrates every cell, follows certain paths connecting various organs and glands with various pressure points in the hands or feet. Pain or tenderness in these points can indicate a blockage in the energy flow and a possible illness in the related area in the body. By massaging the reflex point with the fingers and thumb it is possible to clear the energy channel, stimulate the flow of energy and thus heal any damage in the affected area.

• Although not absolutely necessary it's a good idea to start by washing both feet in warm water. If you like you can add a couple of drops of lavender oil or your favourite essential oil to the water to promote relaxation.
  
  
• Dry the feet and keep the foot that you are not working on wrapped in a warm towel.
  
  
• Comfortably hold the foot you are going to work on and begin using mainly your thumbs to apply pressure the sole, covering every part of it. You should be firm but do not force anything. Begin at the toes and work your way down to the heel.
  
  
• Now move to the top of the foot and slowly work your way back over it covering the whole foot and the ankle.
  
  
• During this process ask the recipient to indicate any areas that are sore or tender. As you come across them apply steady pressure to these areas for about 30 seconds then work around it and apply the pressure again. Repeat this a few times or until the pain and soreness has gone.
  
  
• Repeat this process with the other foot.

Although we hope you enjoy the experience this guide will only give you a quick and simple introduction on how to perform reflexology. To really experience the potential of this therapy find a qualified reflexologist in your area and book yourself in for a treatment.