Reflexology

In reflexology, practitioners apply pressure to specific points on the hands and feet to promote wellness. Reflexologists believe there are certain “reflex” zones on the hands and feet that correspond to specific parts of the body, such as organs and glands. For example, the tips of the fingers would deal with the head, brain and sinuses, while the right palm corresponds to the liver and the left palm relates to the stomach. In a similar way, the top of the feet represent the eyes and ears; and the lungs, kidneys and colon descend, in order, toward the heel.

Reflexology is considered a bioenergetic modality in that practitioners believe it promotes natural healing through energetic pathways. The therapy can help with stress, headaches, digestion, arthritis, insomnia, circulation and certain types of pain. It might be that reflexology helps balance the nervous system or aids in the release of endorphins, which are natural chemicals that can help reduce stress. The basic concept of reflexology took root in 1915, when Dr. William H. Fitzgerald introduced it as “zone therapy.” In the 1930s, the work of Eunice Ingram, a physiotherapist, lead to the modern practice.

(SOURCE: Cathy Wong, about.com)