Reflexology is a form of bodywork in which pressure is applied to various parts of the feet (and sometimes hands and/or earlobes) which correspond or mirror various organs and systems throughout the body. This pressure helps to release congestion and tension from these corresponding areas of the body, thus promoting relaxation and restoring balance (the chart above shows which part of the foot corresponds to what organ or system in the body).  Reflexology is strictly a complementary form of therapy and is not meant to diagnose disease or heal the body by itself.  It is also not technically a form of massage, so practioners are not required to be licensed.  However, most reflexologist go through professional training classes and are well qualified to practice the therapy, so I wouldn't let the lack of licensure deter you from experiencing this wonderful theraputic art.

Like many forms of bodywork and massage, Reflexology has its roots in ancient Eastern medicine from China, India and Egypt.  It was introduced to the Western world by Dr. William Fitzgerald in 1913.  He observed that "reflexes" in the foot were linked to the various organs and systems in the body by corresponding "zones" and he called this therapy "zone therapy".  In the 1930's, a lady by the name of Eunice Ingham observed that congestion and tension in various areas of the foot mirrored congestion in tension in the corresponding part of the body and further developed the zone therapy into what is now modern Reflexology.

Reflexology sessions are typically about an hour long and done without the use of oil or lotion.  Most reflexologists will discuss your overall health history and lifestyle before beginning the treatment, in order to determine which areas require the most focus. The pressure should not be painful and if it is, you should communicate this to the practioner so they can adjust and make you comfortable.  Most people feel relaxed and have an overall sense of well being after a reflexology session, but a few people are tearful, lethargic or nauseous after the first session or two.  If you fall into the latter category, you should not be alarmed, it simply means that your body is returning to a state of equilibrium and these symptoms will disappear in future sessions. Either way, communicate how you feel after a session to your therapist, so they can further refine your treatment.