Reflexology is both an art and a science based on the principle that your feet, hands and ears are mini-maps of your entire body. Applying pressure through touch to the various points and areas can have tremendous benefits on the whole body.
It is more than just a foot or hand massage. It works on organs, glands, and other body parts that other touch modalities may not be able to access through touch. Reflexology works through the nervous system and helps to break up congestion and deposits that have built up around our nerve endings from toxins and chemicals in our system.
These deposits may create blockages which can interfere with communication between the cells, disrupt energy flow and ultimately lead to diseases if not broken down. The circulation system can also be enhanced so the body can help cleanse itself of toxins.
Reflexology is both old and new. There is evidence of ancient cultures, such as Egypt, India, China and Japan practicing some form of foot and hand therapy. Even though reflexology has its’ roots in ancient Eastern forms of healing, the development of modern reflexology has happened primarily in the West.
Modern day reflexology was introduced by Dr. William Fritzgerald in 1917 when he originated the “Vertical Zone Theory”, which divided the body in ten vertical zones. Then in 1924, Dr. Joe Shelby Riley introduced the “Horizontal Zone Theory.” Dr. Riley’s assistant, Eunice Ingham, combined the two theories to form a map on the feet and hands in 1930 and was the person to probably make the greatest contribution to the field of modern reflexology.
Since the benefits of reflexology are still not well known, the Washington Reflexology Association was established in 1997 in an effort to increase awareness, educate the general public, as well as promote excellence and professionalism in the field of reflexology in Washington State. In celebration of its’ 20th year anniversary, the Washington Reflexology Association and Bastyr University will be co-hosting an event at Bastyr University by the “Reflexology Path” located next to the greenhouse on Saturday, Sept. 16 from 1 to 4 p.m.
guests will have a free reflexology session, walk the reflexology path and go on a guided tour of Bastyr’s gardens to learn more about the amazing healing powers of plants and herbs. To experience a reflexology session, go to www.washingtonreflexology.org to find a certified reflexologist.
