Reflexology: Step into Balance

Deborah Dowker

The science of reflexology works with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands, which correspond with all glands, organs and parts of the body. Reflexology is a unique method of using the thumb and fingers on these reflex areas.

As a complementary therapy, reflexology promotes better health. It enhances the body's natural healing process by:

• Relieving stress and tension.
• Improving circulation, which boosts the supply of oxygen and important nutrients to tissues.
• Promoting the body's ability to balance in times of stress, and achieve homeostasis.
• Aiding in the elimination of the body's waste.

Reflexology is used for preventative health care as well as during a healing crisis. As a complementary therapy, it's been proven to work well with traditional medical care. Reflexology can reduce anxiety around medical treatments such as chemotherapy. A study at Michigan State University found that women receiving reflexology treatments adjust better to their cancer therapy. Some fertility clinics recommend reflexology to reduce the stress associated with the inability to conceive.

Reflexology has been practiced in diverse cultures for centuries. Although not a new therapy, reflexology came to the attention of the American public in the 1930s through the work of Eunice Ingham. As founder of the International Institute of Reflexology, she developed the Ingham Method training program to open up reflexology to healers from all walks of life. Ingham's nephew and current president of the institute, Dwight Byers, have together offered courses for the past 65 years.

According to U.S. News & World Report, reflexology has been shown in preliminary studies to ease headache pain, severity of premenstrual symptoms and anxiety of cancer patients.

Reflexology can help you to step back into balance.

Instructor Deborah Dowker and Dwight Byers, president of The International Institute of Reflexology, teach the Ingham Method in the Pacific Northwest. They present workshops toward certification in Portland on April 26-27 and July 12-13. Visit www.reflexology-usa.net.