Are you stressed out? Tired? Out of Balance?
Integrative Reflexology takes a relaxing foot and hand massage to a whole new level! It utilizes whole hand strokes to stimulate reflex areas to achieve therapeutic effects throughout the body. Integrative Reflexology is based on the four theories of Structural Alignment, Zones, Meridians and Psychoneuroimmunology. Advanced Integrative Reflexology combines reflexology with massage and is a gentle and non invasive complimentary holistic therapy that can aid in treating a wide variety of health concerns such as stress, insomnia, anxiety, pre-menstrual symptoms, back pain, digestive issues and fatigue etc. Additionally it can help relieve strain and pain from daily wear and tear on the feet that is often the result of modern footwear that tends to restrict the natural movement of the foot and reducing its ability to “Breathe.”
Through foot and hand reflexology, I will:
- Work with the structural alignment of the feet and improve function in the body by freeing the fascia that is holding tension.
- Work with the Chinese meridians in order to achieve greater balance in the system<./li>
- Improve Function within each cavity of the body through the reflexology zones.
- Activate the calming effect in your body while improving your mood through stimulation of the nerves on the bottom of your feet.
Benefits:
- Creates a state of deep relaxation
- Improves Digestion
- Can reduce constipation
- Supports sinus drainage
- Clears mucous from the lungs
- Can induce labor contractions for full term babies
- Relieves premenstrual symptoms
- Reduces muscular tension throughout the body including the neck, shoulders, hips gluteals and spine
- Reduces swelling in the feet and lower limbs which results in greater range of motion
- Cleanses fluids through increased kidney function and urination
- Elicits an overall sense of well being.
What To Expect In A Session
- A therapeutic foot soak with essential oils
- A foot scrub with either salt or sugar and essential oils
- Hand reflexology ; to further enhance the relaxation and therapeutic effects
- Sessions are generally performed on a massage table or in a reclining relaxation chair.
- May incorporate massage into your session as needed.
Structural Alignment Theory
This explains the physical component of reflexology and has its roots in the connective web tissue that is constant from the big toe to the top of the head called Fascia. This fascia wraps around every bone, muscle and organ creating the body’s physical pattern of alignment. When one area of the body is tense this tension is reflected throughout the physical body and affects the posture and alignment of the body. This is the basis of Myofacial work in massage therapy. The structural alignment theory also includes assessing the structure of the foot based on how the three arches of the foot work together. In the Holistic model the inner or medial arch is correlated to the spine which supports our physical structure and therefore is related to the “Body”. The lateral arch correlates to the large intestines which in the Holistic model is the emotional center and is related to “Mind”. And lastly the transverse arch is connected to the Diaphram muscle which assists in drawing in the breath which relates to “Spirit”. Observing the structure of the arches can help inform us about what may be going on in the larger picture of the Whole body and how the structure translates to the state of the body , mind and spirit.Zone Theory
This is the dominant theory in modern Reflexology and forms its foundation. The idea behind this theory is that the body is mapped out into different zones and working one area in the same zone as another can achieve therapeutic effects. The zones become a location tool for finding reflex points when applied strictly to the feet and correspond to the physical body.Meridian Theory
The meridian theory comes from Eastern influence and has its roots in the Chinese meridian pathways. Meridians are energy channels within the body which transport “Chi” or Life Force.” There are 12 major meridians and each exist in a corresponding pairs and are associated with specific organ. There are two more meridians which are located on the front and back midline of the body. Each meridian has either Yin (negative) or Yang(positive) energy and is also associated with an Element. In Chinese medicine there are 5 elements, Earth , Wood, Water, Fire and Metal. These elements refer to conditions rather than material elements and are associated with a season, climate, body organ, sense, emotion , color, sound, essential oil, personality etc. The meridians bring the elements and their qualities into the physical body. If a meridian becomes congested or blocked energy cannot flow and this in turn creates congestion in the system. Over time if this congestion is not treated physical symptoms may begin to present in the body. The goal is to keep the meridians clear and maintain balance in the body. In Integrative Reflexology the focus is on the meridians that are directly related to the fingers and toes of hand and foot reflexology.Psychoneuroimmunology Theory
Today it is now commonly agreed upon in the scientific community that there is a correlation between stress and disease. Psychoneuroimmunology is a field of study that investigates the interaction between the brain the nervous system and the immune system.Disclaimer
Tranquil Flow Holistic Health LLC aligns itself with the model of Integrative and Holistic Healing.
Shamanic Healing, Energy Work, Integrative Reflexology and Chromotherapy are natural, complementary and adjunct to Western Medicine.
Tranquil Flow does not provide medical diagnosis , advice, or treatment and the information provided through this website should not be used in diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease. It is not a substitute for professional care.
If you suspect you may have a medical or psychological problem, please consult with an appropriate health care provider.