3 surprising facts about reflexology

So you think you know about reflexology?  Yes, it's more than a simple foot massage; sure, it's super relaxing and of course it's been around for centuries. But did you know that it was actually an American surgeon who began to popularise the treatment in the West? 

September 18th - 24th is World Reflexology Week - an opportunity for reflexologists to promote the benefits of the complementary therapy and to educate the public.  

With that in mind, I'd like to share three facts about reflexology that you may not already know...

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1) Modern day reflexology was made mainstream by the medical profession

American ear, nose and throat surgeon Dr William Fitzgerald is credited with devising 'zone theory' alongside Dr Edwin Bowers.  They discovered that the body could be divided into ten longitudinal zones, and that by applying pressure in one part of the zone, an anaesthetic effect was created along the entire zone.  Dr Joe Shelby Riley elaborated zone theory by adding a further eight horizontal zones.  Eunice Ingham, a physiotherapist colleague of Dr Riley, put the theory into practice by working on thousands of feet.  She painstakingly created the first 'foot map', a reflection of the entire body on the feet.  Ingham also discovered that applying pressure didn't just elicit an anaesthetic effect, but stimulated the healing process.

2) It's not all about the feet

Reflexes can be worked on the hands, ears and even the face!  So if you've been put off reflexology because you don't like having your feet touched (or seen in public!), you have no excuses - go book a session!

3) Reflexology may lead to improved concentration, greater creativity and better decision making

This bold statement relates to corporate reflexology - the practice of companies providing reflexology treatments during work hours for their staff.  With the cost of stress-related workplace absence increasing yearly, it makes good business sense to support the health and wellbeing of staff members.  Not only does it allow businesses to get the best out of their employees, reflexology in the workplace has also been shown to improve morale, increase job satisfaction and loyalty.

Simply Therapies offers corporate reflexology and massage to businesses in the East Kent area.  As a special offer for World Reflexology Week, we're offering a reduced introductory rate for our popular 'Wellbeing Wednesdays'.  Get in touch for more information!