Reflexology is a "hands on" therapy that uses a pressure-point system, much like acupressure does. These two therapies are also similar in that they seek to move the body's energy and make use of the body's energy centres.

Energy therapies have a long history of about 4,000 years, particularly in China and Egypt. Reflexology as we practice it now is a modernized version of ancient methods and is supported by many years of research and clinical experience; it's practiced worldwide in countries including Korea, Thailand, Denmark, Germany, England, Ireland, Scotland and Australia, and this list is growing steadily. Reflexology is becoming part of mainstream health care and is covered by benefit plans in some European countries. Perhaps best of all, it can be easily learned for self care in daily life to help harmonize all of our systems - mental, emotional and physical.

Effects of stress
Modern life is rife with various stressors. Dr. Bruce Lipton, PhD, in The Biology of Belief explains that stress shuts down the immune system. This is why, for example, when a patient is scheduled for organ transplant surgery, they are given stress hormones to do exactly that: shut down the immune system, thus preventing rejection of the new organ by the recipient's body. Stress is also known to negatively affect health and is a suspected precursor to many modern era conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, chronic fatigue, insomnia and digestive problems.

But by balancing the body's systems, reflexology helps reduce stress. As a trained reflexologist, I've had clients from 3 to 92 years old. During and after sessions with them, I've observed firsthand the powerful, deep relaxation response that reflexology initiates. There are more than 7,200 nerve endings in each foot that are connected to nerves that run up the legs and through the spine to the brain, stimulating a biochemical reaction that produces powerful results.

A seven-year Korean study from 2000 to 2007 has shown reflexology's effectiveness in reducing symptoms of peripheral neuropathy in diabetes II patients. Treatment also provides relief from mental and physical fatigue in middle-aged women, and helps common problems experienced during PMS and the perimenopause and menopause stages of a woman's life. Reflexology is also good in caring for cancer patients, by reducing pain and stress during chemotherapy treatment and by giving much-needed, loving emotional care.

Treat youself
In my experience, about 85 percent of people who try reflexology notice some kind of positive difference. If you think reflexology may be right for you, I'd recommend starting with five weekly sessions, then twice a month for two or three months, and then maintaining the bliss with monthly sessions. Over time, this will bring about increased feelings of well being and will provide relief from your busy life. 

Next time you think you're just too busy to take the time for yourself, remember how much time it takes to recover from illness and how much you deserve good health care! Then call a reflexologist and give yourself the gift of better health naturally. 

Moira Khouri is certified in holistic foot reflexology, holistic nutrition and Level 1 Sekhem Seichim reiki. She works as a teaching assistant with Global College of Natural Medicine, and as a reflexologist and nutritional consultant in private practice. Her passion is educating others on the beauty and simplicity of the holistic approach to health and well-being. Phone: 604-255-8405 e-mail: moirakhouri@telus.net web: www.moirakhouri.citymax.com

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