Reflexology: A unique and holistic way to support good health

MOKOPANE – “Through therapeutic reflexology, a signal can be sent from the foot to the rest of the body for natural balance or self-healing. The human body is truly wonderful.”

This is according to local reflexologist Jannie Meyer, who explains in depth how the process of reflexology works.

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“Reflexology is a scientific art that is part of complementary and alternative medicine. He adds that 7 000 reflex points on each foot reflect the entire human body and correspond to every organ, gland and system in the body. By manipulating the reflex points with pressed thumb and finger techniques, the body undergoes physiological changes that promote self-healing.”

Meyer says overloaded reflex areas release ‘energy blocks’ that prevent the body’s own healing ability and are due to electrical and chemical impulses generated by stimulation.

For Meyer, it is important for the body to be in balance.

“A reflexologist views the body as a whole, with interrelated systems that enable the optimisation of blood, lymph and nerve flow, to reduce pain and facilitate natural detoxification, while supporting well-being and healing energy where needed.”

This, he says, is different to, for example, when a person goes for a foot massage.

“A foot massage manipulates soft tissue by kneading, stroking, rubbing or tapping to relax the muscles, while reflexology focuses on the reflex map points and areas of the body mainly the soles of the feet using micro-movement techniques.”

He says that during the 45 to 60 minute treatment, certain areas of the foot feel more sensitive than others.

“It can range from uncomfortable to painful depending on your health, but will subside if you start to relax.”

“A previous injury or illness, crystal deposits in nerve endings, congestion and energy imbalances may warrant further treatment, but sometimes it may be a normal response to that particular reflex.”

Anyone can benefit from reflexology, he says, regardless of age and gender.

“The treatment cannot cause any harm, although some conditions are treated with caution.”

He adds that care is taken in light of the limited scope of practice, guidelines, ethical consideration and professional conduct according to regulatory bodies and professional associations for patients who suffer from phlebitis, deep vein thrombosis, internal bleeding, insulin dependent, first trimester pregnancy, cancer, suffer from osteoporosis, epilepsy and infectious diseases.

Meyer concluded that reflexology does not claim to heal, but rather helps the body to heal itself.

“It is not a cure for any condition and is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. As a therapeutic reflexologist, I cannot make a diagnosis of any kind, however, reflexology stimulates the brain, relieves muscle pain or headaches, increases energy, relieves tension and stress, and improves blood circulation. To summarise, reflexology is a unique and holistic way to support good health and help you feel better by nourishing mental and physical vitality.”