The Art of Reflexology
By: Liz Metrik, AAR, Certified Reflexologist
“Foot and hand reflexology is a scientific art based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all body parts. The physical act of applying specific pressures using thumb, finger and hand techniques result in stress reduction which causes a physiological change in the body” American Reflexology Certification Board (ARCB)
In 1974, I took my first Reflexology class, where I became aware of the healing properties of working on hands and feet. More knowledge and practice was needed in order to satisfy my fascination of the so-called magic energy. Down through the years, I continued to practice and study the different affects the reflexes held in the body’s natural healing process. It wasn’t until 2008, that I actually chose to make Reflexology my craft. The timing of this decision was perfect. Bill Flocco, the “Reflex Maestro” of the Flocco Method-Integration of the Hands, Feet and Ears and originator of the American Academy of Reflexology in Las Angeles, was teaching a Certification course in Houston. Through the course, I discovered the ears. Integrating the ears made the work much more powerful for creating a feeling of well-beingness for my incredibly wonderful, yet stressed clients. I describe it as “Icing on the Cake.”
The history of Reflexology goes back to the very early ages in almost every culture of the world. It is mentioned on the hieroglyphics of Egypt; in the Bible with the references of washing and anointing the feet; in 5000 year old records from East Asia credited by the yellow Emperor, Huang Ti; in India on the feet of Vishnu and Buddha; in the Native American cultures from the Incas to the indigenous North American cultures where footwork is used today as a natural healing to restoring balance. The medical physicians from around the world as early as the 1700’s have recorded the possibilities of human motor reactions and a direct relationship between a stimulus and a response.
How does it Work?
There are maps of every vital organ located in the hands and feet and these maps are basically identical. Because the feet are a larger surface, it is easier to detect blockages, change of texture, skin tone differences and change of temperature. The ears, however, hold a different map. Because the ears are closer to the brain, the tendency to go into a total state of rest and relaxation occurs quicker. For instance, if a client’s mind is overly stimulated from the day’s stress, I hold certain master reflexes in the ears in order to set the tone for calmness. It usually works every time.
But How does this work?
My simple answer is the timing of the body. Our amazing bodies are made up of twelve systems; skin, muscles, bones, blood, lymphatics, respiration, glands, digestion, reproduction, sensory, urinary, and nerves. Reflexology works mainly through the nervous system. By reflexing the general area on the hands, feet or ears, a reflex message is communicated to the brain, and the brain responds by signaling back to the area of discomfort. It is this type of physical communication that creates a healthier flow of energy resulting in a relief response. It is rewiring or recalibrating the timing of the body. It only makes sense that when the timing of one system is out of sync, then others are affected and that’s when one experiences dis-ease or discomfort.
Watching individuals transform into calm and peaceful human beings, I am convinced that the art of reflexology is “scientific magic.” It is not hocus pocus or subliminal messaging. It is truly a scientific holistic modality that everyone should experience. Maintaining our minds and bodies positively is the most important duty we owe ourselves, especially in this day and age.
For more information:
Liz Metrik, AAR
Certified Reflexologist
214-616-9970
