CONTENTS
Guide
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First Adams Media hardcover edition August 2019
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Interior design by Stephanie Hannus
Interior images 123RF/Kittikorn Phongok
Interior illustrations by Katelyn Rivera
Cover design by Frank Rivera
Cover images 123RF/Kittikorn Phongok
Library of Congress Cataloging-in-Publication Data
Names: Adams Media, issuing body.
Title: The healing power of reflexology.
Description: Avon, Massachusetts: Adams Media, 2019.
Includes bibliographical references and index.
Identifiers: LCCN 2019006888 | ISBN 9781507210864 (hc) | ISBN 9781507210871 (ebook)
Subjects: LCSH: Reflexology (Therapy) | Self-care, Health.
Classification: LCC RM723.R43 H43 2019 | DDC 615.8/224--dc23
LC record available at https://lccn.loc.gov/2019006888
ISBN 978-1-5072-1086-4
ISBN 978-1-5072-1087-1 (ebook)
Many of the designations used by manufacturers and sellers to distinguish their products are claimed as trademarks. Where those designations appear in this book and Simon & Schuster, Inc., was aware of a trademark claim, the designations have been printed with initial capital letters.
This book is intended as general information only, and should not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. In light of the complex, individual, and specific nature of health problems, this book is not intended to replace professional medical advice. The ideas, procedures, and suggestions in this book are intended to supplement, not replace, the advice of a trained medical professional. Consult your physician before adopting any of the suggestions in this book, as well as about any condition that may require diagnosis or medical attention. The author and publisher disclaim any liability arising directly or indirectly from the use of this book.
Contains material adapted from the following title published by Adams Media, an Imprint of Simon & Schuster, Inc.: Yoga Journal Presents Your Guide to Reflexology by Yoga Journal, copyright 2016, ISBN 978-1-4405-9381-9.
INTRODUCTION
Heal your body, mind, and spirit with the ancient power of reflexology. Reflexology is an energetic touch therapy that works points on the feet (reflex points) that reflect specific areas of the body to promote deep relaxation and mindfulness. By opening yourself up to the wonders of reflexology, you can discover easy ways to enhance your lifeor someone elseswith your own hands.
Reflexology is not linked to any one belief system. It can be practiced by anyone who is open to the healing power of touch. Whether you are healthy or are dealing with disease or injury, reflexology offers great benefits. When you are healthy, reflexology treatments can reinforce your vitality and strengthen your immune system; when ill, it can improve circulation, remove toxins, and stimulate the flow of energy throughout the body.
Extremely adaptable, reflexology also complements and supports other types of health treatments. People recovering from surgeries, cancer treatments, or any other severe conditions can benefit from reflexology sessions to promote healing. Also, reflexology sessions can easily be conducted in your home because you only need a comfortable chair for the recipient and a stool or chair for the giver.
The Healing Power of Reflexology presents reflexology not only as a healing art but also as a way to look at your life holistically. Reflexologists and other energy workers assist the receiver in focusing on the health of the body, mind, and spirit. In reflexology sessions, you can release troubling or busy thoughts, encourage muscles to let go of tension, and create an environment dedicated to whole wellness.
Reflexology can offer gentle yet powerful healing energies to you. All you have to do is open your heart to it and invite it in.
PART 1
What Is Reflexology?
Natural forces within us are the true healers of disease.
HIPPOCRATES
IN THIS PART, youll discover what reflexology is (and isnt!). Youll take a step back to the past to look at the origins of reflexology around the world and trace its roots from the ancient Egyptian and Mayan cultures to the present day. Youll explore how the scientific revolution of the sixteenth century helped provide the intellectual framework for the practice of reflexology. And youll look at how it is currently used.
Then youll find out what reflexology can do for your bodyits not just for relieving stress; it is also useful for improving circulation, releasing toxins, and more. Curious about how reflexology can stimulate the bodys own healing potential? This part will show you.
Finally, youll take a tour of the human body as it relates to reflexology, looking at the structure and function of the body and how they are reflected in the feet. And dont worry, if youre unfamiliar with terms such as zones , meridians , and chakras , they are defined hereall with the intention of getting you ready to start healing!
Reflexology Then and Now
To acquire knowledge, one must study; but to acquire wisdom, one must observe.
MARILYN VOS SAVANT
Taking a brief trip through the history of reflexology is a useful way to understand complementary, integrative healing approaches (also called modalities). Humans have left records that show an ancient tie to modern reflexology. Be they oral, artistic, or written, these accounts create a connection from the deep past to the clear present. In this chapter, youll investigate those roots of reflexology, starting with ancient healing lore. Then youll explore the scientific principles involved. Next youll look at its evolution as it has grown in popularity throughout the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, up to the present day. Finally, youll discover how professionals currently use reflexology. This grounding is intended to help you understand how reflexology and its fundamental techniques came about. But before we get to that, lets talk about what reflexology is and how it works.
What Is Reflexology?
Reflexology is an energetic touch therapy that works points on the feet (reflex points) that reflect specific areas of the body. If you imagine a body superimposed over the soles of the feet, you can begin to understand the basis of reflexology. The head is at the toes, and the rest of the body follows down the foot.