“Reflexology is a powerful aid in helping the body regain and maintain homeostasis, physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.” (Jenny Hope-Spencer)
In this essay I will attempt to address reflexology and the above statement on
Homeostasis, looking at physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I will see
how they relate to each other in relation to homeostasis. Using books and web-sites I
will find if the above statement has any physical proof, but also looking at the history
and the theories behind what we know as reflexology today.
Homeostasis
Homeostasis is the constant balance of the body’s internal environment, within very
narrow margins.
The body, in health is regulated by the brain, glands and the organs ect… If one of
these is out of balance, the effects are felt though out the body. Stress and tension can
contribute to illness. Tense muscles restrict blood flow, reduce the transportation of
oxygen and nutrients and preventing the elimination of waste products. The whole
system becomes sluggish and is unable to function effectively. There is about 7,200
nerve endings in each hand and foot, by stimulating these nerves, the reflexologist can
enable the pathways to clear, becoming more efficient and enabling the systems to
work more effectively.
We are as healthy as the weakest glands and organs. As we bring new vitality and increased function to an organ or gland, the whole body feels stronger and healthier. (Norman, L, 2003)
Reflexology and its History
Reflexology was first practiced by the North Americans, Indians, Chinese and
Egyptians. Dr Fitzgerald in 1913 started offering a similar therapy to reflexology, it
was later termed zone therapy by Dr Edwin Bowers, this used ten zones where
pressure was applied to certain areas which could produce an anaesthetic effect.
Several American doctors including, Dr George Starr White, Dr Joe Riley wrote
further...