Reflexology (Alternative Therapy) is also known as Zone Therapy. It is an alternative medicine involving application of pressure to the feet and hands with specific thumb, finger and hand techniques without the use of oil or lotion. It is based on a system of zones and reflex areas that purportedly reflect an image of the body on the feet and hands with the premier that such work effects a physical change to the body.
The Cochrane collaboration defines reflexology as follows:- Reflexology is gentle manipulation or pressing on certain parts of the foot to produce an effect elsewhere in the body.
- Reflexologists divide the body into ten equal vertical zones, five on the right and five on the left.
- Reflexologists posit that the blockage of an energy field, invisible life force or ‘Qi’, can prevent healing. Another tent of reflexology is the belief that practitioners can relieve stress and pain in other part of the body through the manipulation on feet. One claimed explanation is that the pressure received in the feet may send signals that balance the nervous system or release chemicals such as endorphins that reduce stress and pain.
Practices resembling reflexology may have existed in previous historical periods. Similar practices have been documented in the histories of China and Egypt. Reflexology was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald MD as ENT specialist and Edwin F. Bowers. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure had an anesthetic effect on other areas of the body. Eunice D Ingham, a physiotherapist claimed that the feet and the hands were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body is to reflexes on the feet, remaining zone therapy reflexology. Modern reflexologists use Ingham’s method, or similar techniques developed by the reflexologist Laura Norman.
Reflexologists believe that these reflex points correspond to different body organs and systems, and that pressing them creates real benefits for the person’s health.
Reflexologists use foot map to guide their work. The left foot corresponds to the organs found on the left side of the body and the right foot to the organs on the right side.
There are essential difference between massage, Reiki or acupuncture and reflexology. Massage therapists manipulate larger areas of soft tissue in the body while reflexologists apply pressure to specific points on the feet, hands and ears. Reiki does not involve any physical manipulation or pressure, but instead uses light touch to work with the subtle vibrational field thought to surround the body. Finally while acupuncture and acupressure like, reflexology use reflex points on the body to influence other parts of the body, the points are not the same and acupuncture uses points over the entire body.
Reflexology helps to:
- Decrease anxiety
- Complement cancer treatment
- Improve headaches
- Enhance overall wellbeing
- Improves blood circulation
- Fights depression
- Relieves body pain
- Helps in relaxation
Dr. Ansar combines all these systems together and makes it more convenient. It is a holistic approach towards patients with various physical and mental disorders. This holistic procedure works more faster and get faster relief and relaxation. It is an entirely different experience for everyone.