Reflexology is a type of scientific holistic healing method. Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium.This gentle therapy encourages the body to work normally to restore its own healthy balance.Reflexology is the application of appropriate pressure to specific points and areas on the feet, hands or ears.Reflexologists believe that these areas and reflex points correspond to different body organs and systems.Application of pressure on such areas has a beneficial effect on the organs and person’s general health.Indian reflexology is much specific and eminent in nature as it examines the science of all other indigenous age old health practices and therapies like Ayurvedha, Siddha, Varma etc that prevailed in India and Asia and develop precise zones to be treated or strengthened. It not only deals with the treatment but also with the dynamic diagnostic techniques and preventive measures. Indian reflexology highlights the benefits of healthy altered life style to the beneficiary which would enhance the natural curing mechanism of the physical body.
The art of reflexology dates back to ancient India, Egypt and China, it was not until 1913 that Dr. William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the west as ‘zone therapy’. He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone. In 1930’s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone therapy into what is now known as ‘Reflexology’. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.
Reflexology has been practiced for thousands of years by Egyptians, Native Americans, Mayans and Indian civilizations. It is widely used in many European countries as an accepted therapy. Acupuncture, Acupressure and Shiatsu are similar in some respects to reflexology in their use of reflexes or meridians of the body as they relate to the gland, organs and parts of the body. Reflexology focuses on relaxation of the reflexes through manipulation to reduce stress and tension.