Facts About The Origin Of Reflexology

Reflexology is indeed a popular health regimen today. But do you know any facts about how it came about?

History Of Reflexology

The origins of reflexology dates back to ancient Egypt as evidenced by the engravings found in the tomb of a physician in Saqqara in Egypt. It has been said that different forms of working the feet to effect health were used worldwide during the ancient time.

Did you know that the Zone Theory was the precursor to modern Reflexology? This was started by Dr. William H. Fitzgerald who published the different articles he had written on the subject of Zone Analgesia, where pressure was applied to bony eminence corresponding to the location of the injury. Also, he used pressure points on the palate, tongue and back of the pharynx wall to achieve the desired result of pain relief. A very interesting fact was likewise discovered by him – pressure application on the zones won’t just relieved pain but also the underlying causes.

Eunice D. Ingham was fascinated by the concept of Zone Therapy and began developing her foot reflex theory in the early 1930s. She actually wrote her first book entitled, “Stories The Feet Can Tell” wherein she has documented different cases she handled and carefully mapped out the different foot reflexes.

Ingham’s Contributions To The World Of Reflexology

1. The charted map of the reflexes based on the anatomical model. This map shows that the reflexes on the feet are a mirror image of all the glands, organs, and parts of the body.
2. The alternating pressure has a stimulating effect on the body instead of a numbing effect.
3. Brought reflexology to the public as well as to the non-medical community.

Trivia Info Resource: www.schoolofnaturaltherapies.co.uk