Foot Reflexology - What it Can Do For You
It is my pleasure to write about what I consider a truly simple, yet effective modality. Foot reflexology is considered by some to be just about a foot massage. This was more or less my own feeling before I saw that there is much into your feet than you would possibly ever guess. This article will be a description of my professional journey, with an intention to educate and explain foot reflexology.
In the Beginning
Well, it is true that reflexology dates back at least 5,000 years ago. It is depicted on an Egyptian tomb of a medical doctor that was second only to the king. In this tomb (found in Saqqara) are six pictographs which include circumcision, child birth, pharmacology, embalming, dentistry and reflexology. Slowly, the knowledge of reflexology traveled from Egypt to Greece, Arabia and than to Europe through the Roman Empire. Simultaneously, in the East, the history of reflexology can be traced from India, China and than to Japan. In India, a painting of the Hindu god Vishnu was recovered. In one of the paintings of Vishnu's feet there are Sanskrit symbols in certain points that may actually reflect reflexology points. There is no absolute evidence that these points relate to human anatomy. However, the points are so exact that it could be beyond coincidence.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands that correspond to all of the organs and systems in the body. These points are worked on in specific manipulations that are generally pleasant and are done while you relax. Doing reflexology means more than working on your feet. It is actually working with the person, attempting to mobilize inner energies (physical and mental in conflation) in order to fight any imbalance in the system. We, the reflexologists, systematically approach, with much empathy, that neglected area between body and soul where modern medical practice normally stops short. And indeed, how often we hear medical experts tell us that ultimately recovery depends on the determination, trust, and optimism of the patient. Unfortunately, medicine has little to say about the means of cultivating such an attitude, and here is where Advanced Foot Reflexology performs so well.
What is Advanced Reflexology?
As a progressive method, foot reflexology goes beyond the body and its ailments. I use the word "advanced" not in order to imply that what I do is more advanced, but to convey the notion that body, mind and soul are really registered in our feet and we can actually make an accurate assessment of where a certain person is coming from. Hence, we also do "foot reading", which is a look into the trends that shaped our life. The accuracy of the insight into the state of the subject is astounding. The mental, physical and psychological history of the person is spelled out with such accuracy and detail that it makes the interpretation of his or her state of health and probably future developments highly credible.
Who Seeks Foot Reflexology?
Sometimes people come to see me and want to know why they don't feel good. Given that there are no alarming signals (in which case they need so rule out severe situations with the help of a medical doctor) we would review their general health and state of mind, then assess and integrate the information based on what their feet will show. Many times, everything on the surface is fine, yet the person just doesn't feel quite right. We could find that such people are alienated from certain aspects of themselves, which inevitably causes suffering and pain. Pain and suffering come to show us that we must change something for the sake of our "wholeness". We will not solve people's problems for them, as only they can do this. But we can help them break a cycle where they would be free to make choices. Yes, all this through the feet. Isn't it amazing?
Walking the Path
I've been practicing foot reflexology for 10 years now. I have seen many people, many cases. I was lucky to find the time to travel and study with healers in the US, Israel and India. For me, reflexology is not a foot massage. I'm sure that by now you also understand. It is a wonderful tool for relaxation and transformation. It is a form of art that comes from one's heart. At last, I would like to quote some inspiring lines from Avi Grinberg's book "Foot Analysis". It is about the stage of transformation that we experience while unfolding and connecting to our experiences. It is also about a successful transformation when we truly step forward:
- Acknowledge that there are many unrecognized possibilities within you, thereby changing yourself into a mysterious and intriguing place that harbors much potential.
- Be willing to leave old things behind or to accept a type of inner detachment by which you are not dragged into events as they occur.
- Be aware at all times of new possibilities, and be willing to explore them, so that the commencement of something new actually means the end of the old.
Last, but not least, accept the notion of reversal. Beyond the limitations of time and space, reversal can occur on all levels of our life. Reversal means releasing, embracing and transforming. In short, true healing. Amen.
About the author
Ariel Talmor is a board certified foot reflexologist currently practicing in San Diego.
His company, Sole to Sole International provides custom designed sessions for a significant better feeling and heightened disposition, for those who are willing to take some time to get to know themselves better. The new company provides classes and training on foot reflexology and other advanced modalities, from the private individual to the corporate level.
Ariel also instructs as a faculty member in Pacific College of Oriental Medicine. His company also provides advanced reflexology services to "The Center for Health and Wellbeing", owned and operated by GSDBA member Janette Gray, M.D.
www.sole-to-soul.com
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