Academy of Ancient Reflexology

Reflexology Certification Programs and Workshops

Here’s the List of Reflexes to Work for Weight Loss

In the post I published on Friday, February 10 regarding weight loss, I mentioned that, although there was no magical reflex point that could guarantee weight loss, there are points to work that will support and aid someone’s efforts to reach their ideal weight.

What it comes down to is determining what the main reason is for the weight problem. Below is a list of some imbalances that can result in weight issues, and the reflexes on which to focus your sessions:

– Hormone imbalance – endocrine glands;

– Digestion – stomach, small intestine, gallbladder, pancreas and small intestine;

– Elimination – large intestine;

– Stress (Stress is a big reason for weight gain and weight loss. People either reach for comfort foods to fill their bodies with good-feeling dopamine or stop eating.) – adrenal glands, the central nervous system, solar plexus and diaphragm;

– Motivation to move/exercise – adrenals and kidneys (The kidneys control our will and drive.);

– Physical pain – muscles involved;

– Chronic illness – lymph, liver, kidney and adrenals

– Depression- central nervous system and kidneys

Oh yes, and remember the water!

 

 

Ah… The Heart

Since it’s the day of year we humans devote to all things having to do with the heart (like love and chocolate!), I must end the day saying something about this amazing organ that keeps us alive.

Beating 100,000 times a day, this muscle pumps oxygen, food-derived nutrients, hormones and immune cells throughout every square inch of our bodies. By now, most of us know that a healthy diet (a controversial subject in itself), regular exercise, preventative dental care and plenty of fresh air support a healthy cardiovascular system; and that smoking, obesity, acidic blood, noise pollution, exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and a sedentary lifestyle don’t.

As a reflexologist, I have worked with many people with health issues involving the heart. The case that stands out most in my memory though was not a physical one. It was a woman who reported sensitivity as I worked the reflexes of her heart and left lung. At her request, I shared what reflexes I was touching into and asked if that made any sense to her. She burst into tears and said, “I feel like my heart is breaking; I’ve just broken up with my boyfriend.” I was catapulted into remembering that the heart is much more than a pump.

Here are some fascinating facts about our hearts:

– Early Egyptians believed the heart to be the home of thoughts, memories and feelings. Westerners claim the heart to be the bearer of truth and the symbol for love.

– There is no time in utero that the heart starts to beat. The cells beat from the start. As the cells multiply to create the cardiovascular system, they take their cues on how to beat, at what rate, etc. from the mother’s heart. So, when did the mother’s heart begin to beat? If every cell was beating before it was a heart, then how could there be a single moment it became a heart? The heart (and arteries and veins attached), it turns out, is a circulation system with no beginning and no end. Perhaps that is why the Chinese refer to the heartbeat as the cosmic beat.

– The heart remembers. Modern medicine can now confirm that those early Egyptians were right. The heart has its own intelligence and remembers. Much has been written about transplant recipients receiving not only an organ, but the personality traits, temperament and memories of their donor.

– The Chinese pictograph for the word “busy” is composed of two characters: “heart” and “killing”. Hmm…

That last one reminds me of a quote from Lily Tomlin that a friend shared today: “For fast-acting relief, try slowing down.”

 

The Single Most Important Action You Can Take to Lose Weight

In my 29 years (gasp!) of practicing reflexology, I am regularly asked if there is a reflex point for weight loss. How I wish there was! If there was one spot on the feet or hands that could deliver a desired weight, I would be a very wealthy woman!

In lieu of that imaginary “point”, may I suggest one thing that costs less than Weight Watchers, gastric bypass surgery and a year’s membership at the gym?

That magical item is water. Pure alkaline water. Lots of it. If you want to lose weight, I’m talking 1 liter for every 40 lbs you currently weigh. Drinking that much water alone will do so much to help you reach your desired weight goal. Imagine the results if you combine that with conscious eating, regular movement, adequate sleep, encouraging self-talk and relaxation?

When it comes to balancing your weight, drinking plenty of alkaline water will:

• metabolize stored fat. Your body creates additional fat cells and mucous to protect itself from attack from excess acid in the body. Dehydration makes it impossible for the body to reduce the accumulation of acid that contributes to arteriosclerosis, bone density loss, muscle atrophy, inflammatory conditions and unwanted pounds.

• aid kidney function. Water is the best antidote to fluid retention; the more you drink, the more your body is flushed of excess fluid and acid.

• reduce hunger pangs. In many people, the thirst mechanism is so weak that it is often mistaken for hunger! Drink plenty of water throughout the day and watch your cravings disappear.

• improve digestion. Water is essential to your body’s ability to break down food into usable nutrients.

• relieve constipation. Never mind laxatives; adding more water to your day is the first thing you should do.

But back to reflexology… There are actually specific points to work that will assist someone in their concerted strategy to reach a healthy weight. I’ll write about those points in my next post.

90 Reasons to Like Me!

Got your attention, didn’t I?

So, here’s the deal: I’ve created a business page on Facebook and I want you to join. So, to entice you to “like” me, I am going to run a random draw for the next five days. Each day I will draw the name of one person who liked me that day and send that person my detailed, colorful foot reflexology chart as a thank you.

The 22.5 x 38 inch chart displays and labels 90 recognized reflexes (hence 90 reasons to like me!) found on the plantar, dorsal, medial and lateral aspects of the feet. In addition to being a beautiful interpretive work of art that may be proudly displayed in your clinic, the chart will assist you to create individualized sessions for your clients presenting with homeostatic imbalances. So, go ahead and like me now!

http://www.facebook.com/AcademyofAncientReflexology

 

The Influence of Buddhism on Thai Reflexology

“All we are is the result of what we have thought.” … Shakyamuni Buddha

In last month’s post I defined Thai foot reflexology and its benefits, and explained the differences between it and the form of reflexology commonly taught in North America. In this month’s article I would like to share how Thai reflexology has influenced my own life and how Buddhism has informed Thailand’s practice of medicine, including reflexology.

Credit for founding the formal structure of Thai medicine rests with one man: Jivaka Kumarabhacca. Kumarabhacca was a legendary Ayurvedic doctor known to possess great healing gifts. In addition to administering to both royalty and commoner, he was the personal physician to Lord Buddha.

Buddhism in Thailand

During its period of advancement in India between 500 BCE and 800 CE many Hindus were drawn to the teachings of the Buddha, were ordained as monks and practiced Ayurvedic medicine as a way of expressing compassion in their lives. (Ayurvedic medicine developed in India between the mid-second millennium BCE to 500 CE and is the oldest model of medicine in the world.)

Ashoka, the great 2nd century emperor of India, converted to Buddhism and sent monks out into the world with the responsibility of reaching more and more people with the teachings of the Buddha and Ayurvedic medicine. It is here that the relationship between Buddhism and health is birthed.

By the time the monks entered northern Thailand, influences from China, Japan, Taiwan and Korea were evident in a new style of medicine. (The Taiwanese, for example, added in the use of the wooden stick in the foot sessions.) The Thais embraced both Buddhism and the ideas on health and disease introduced by the monks. Buddhism became the official religion of Thailand with over 95% of the population observing. Overtime the country married these new ideas with its own and created a vibrant style of healing art that has survived for thousands of years, and even the arrival of western medicine in the country.

The Genesis of Buddhism

Just as traditional Thai medicine credits its beginning with one man, so does Buddhism.

Siddhartha Gautama, an Indian born to great wealth, literally walked away from a life of luxury at the age of 29. In his later years, people would ask him “Are you a god? An angel? A saint?” His reply to all these questions was, “No.” “Then what are you?” His response, “I am awake” became his title, for the word Buddha means, “awake.” Thus, Buddhism began with a man who roused himself from the illusion of the waking human state.

Siddhartha was the son of a regional king born around 563 BCE in what is now known as Nepal. When his son was born, the king summoned astrologers to discern his son’s future. The charts foretold the possibility of two paths in the infant’s life. Should he follow his father’s footsteps, the stars indicated that Siddhartha would unify all of India and conquer the world. Should he renounce the world though, he would live to redeem the world. The King, wanting the former, spared no effort to keep his son on track – his track.

All manner of privilege was placed at young Siddhartha’s disposal: palaces, dancing girls, rich food and drink, private tutoring in advanced military tactics and intellectual discourse. None but the philosophical pursuits interested the young prince. Orders were issued that nothing unpleasant be allowed into the prince’s courtly life. When he left the palace, servants ran ahead to clear the roads of the old, the diseased and the dead.

One day though, Siddhartha escaped his protectorate and set out on the streets on his own. For the first time in his life, this young man witnessed aging, disease and death. He also met a monk, from whom he learned about the path of renunciation. These encounters had a life-changing effect on the young prince. Siddhartha immediately recognized the source of his own dissatisfaction; the futility of finding fulfillment on the physical plane. Late one night, he kissed his sleeping wife and son goodbye and set out to fulfill his destiny. Reaching the forest edge, he discarded his royal attire, shaved his head and entered the world of asceticism.

In every austerity he outdid his teachers and fellow ascetics and eventually grew so weak that he nearly died. This experience taught him the futility of extremes – whether asceticism or privilege – and constructed the first plank of his program: the principle of the Middle Way, a path of centered moderation that holds the promise of liberation from all suffering.

Buddhism is a religion and philosophy with high moral values that lays great emphasis on human thought and action in dealing with the natural environment, society and personal challenges. It is concerned with the relationship between thoughts and behavior, and the relationship between behavior and its consequences. Interestingly, this spiritual tenant relates nicely to the modern recommendation of moderation and responsibility of which we hear so much today.

Buddhism and Thai Medicine

The Middle Way establishes the underlying principle of traditional Thai medicine, of which there are four branches:

1. Dhammanamai – spiritual practices, which nourish a healthy mind (through meditation and study of Buddhist teachings) and healthy lifestyle (by following the Middle Path).

2. Diet – whole foods and herbs.

3. Manipulation – nuad boran (ancient massage and reflexology) and movement (stretching and yoga).

4. Medicine – herbs, salves, compresses and steams.

As a point of comparison, in North America we compartmentalize ourselves to such a degree as to segregate exercise, food and lifestyle from religion and spirituality. Traditional Thai medicine does just the opposite; it integrates all these aspects of human life into one practice.

Shakyamuni Buddha taught many doctrines, but none more supreme than the science of medicine. Individuals who have taken refuge in Buddhism spend their lives mastering The Six Perfections (giving, morality & ethics, patience, effort, meditation & concentration, and wisdom), moving from one to another as each is fully understood and perfected. Within the practice of medicine though, The Six Perfections are accomplished simultaneously. That is why Thai medicine holds such an important position in the activities of the temples and how Buddhism literally informs the science and art of Thai medicine.

His Holiness, the Dalai Lama is quoted as saying, “When you are strongly motivated to work for others, you can lead a meaningful life. When you have a strong inclination to benefit others, you will find that you are always happy.” Nowhere is that more evident than in Thailand, a country dubbed The Land of Smiles.

Me

As for me, I am blessed with deep personal experiences of my own spirituality whenever I give a Thai reflexology session. The practice continually invites me to enter into my own middle path. I am gently made aware of the fact that the responsibility and possibility for healing lays within each of us, and that the appearance of separateness from others is merely an illusion.

Thai reflexology has strengthened my meditation practice, just as my spiritual efforts have supported my clinical and teaching activities. Knowing that all I have and hold in this world will vanish the moment I leave my earthly body deeply alters my daily awareness. For that I thank Thai reflexology.

If you resonate with what I’ve shared, then I urge you to expand your life and career through a two-day training in Thai Foot Reflexology.

Thai Foot Reflexology – part 1

“I’m on the floor, on my back, my left foot reaching for the ceiling; my Thai massage therapist leaning into the back of my extended leg. Got the picture? And then she casually says, ‘blah, blah, blah… Thai reflexology.’  Well, my head literally shot up from the floor! ‘You mean there is a Thai session just for the feet?’ “

And so began my study of Thai foot reflexology.” – KB

We all know that the heart pumps blood to the cells and organs of the body, and contraction of the muscles facilitates venous return. Because of this physiological function, in Asian medicine the legs are referred to as the “second heart”, and in keeping with the saying “aging starts from the legs”, the legs are considered a barometer of health.

When the soles of the feet do not receive enough stimulation, circulation of the blood in the feet and the legs tends to lessen, eventually leading to many health complications. These understandings, coupled with the centuries-old recognition of reflexive spots in the feet that can influence the well being of the rest of the body, underlie the importance of footwork in Asia, and are reflected in the fact that all Asian bodywork sessions begin with the feet.

Of the four branches of traditional Thai medicine, reflexology is arguably the most popular treatment used to maintain health in Thailand. As well as the monks and doctors providing treatments, it is not uncommon to see rows of people seated at the side of the street at the end of the day exchanging sessions with one another.

What is Thai Reflexology?

Thai reflexology is a manual therapy for the feet, lower legs and knees that developed in Thailand about 2000 years ago. People receiving Thai reflexology always report feeling relaxed afterwards; the treatment is also more often described as refreshing and revitalizing, as opposed to sedating.

Thai reflexology is often referred to as the “marriage of India and Asia”, because it incorporates elements of India’s Ayurvedic medicine (which are its origin), Japanese shiatsu and Chinese reflexology. Utilizing stretching and a variety of manual techniques, including the use of a specifically tooled wooden stick, Thai reflexology seeks to restore balance within the body’s 72,000 sen (energy lines).

And although a practitioner may be very familiar with specific reflexology points commonly displayed on North American foot charts, the focus is never on those points, but rather on removing energy blockages and strengthening the flow of lom (energy) within the sen. With that accomplished, the body is then free to restore itself and to correct whatever imbalances are present.

When asked how Thai reflexology compares to our western model of reflexology, Thais will respond with the colloquialism “same same”, which translates to “similar and not the same”.

In the west, the focus is on points, with the intent to improve the functioning of the related organs and glands. Although desire to foster better health within the organs is part of a Thai session, the focus is more on encouraging the flow of energy. The Thai practitioner rarely thinks of points – he or she trusts that all are being stimulated through the well thought-out and time-proven protocol and techniques. The ordered sequence of moves and techniques are all designed to systematically open up the sen lines, free blocked energy and stimulate the reflex points.

Traditional medicine practices around the world recognize that symptoms are not the disease, are not the enemy, are not static; symptoms/sensations are simply the language of the body, the voice crying out for help. Therefore the Thai practitioner will work to alter the flow of energy and strengthen the healing ability of the body, rather than attempt to eliminate symptoms.

The Benefits

From the therapist’s perspective Thai reflexology is a very enjoyable and engaging modality to administer. Although the session can be offered on the floor or in chairs, in the west it is most often proffered using a massage table and stool. It requires not only the therapist’s attention and presence, but also the full participation of the therapist’s body. Techniques originate within the practitioner’s body and are transferred by way of body movement to that of the recipient. By moving his/her own body during the session the practitioner reduces the likelihood of muscle stiffness that can result from remaining stationary for a length of time and also encourages lymphatic function. Repetitive strain injuries are avoided through the application of a variety of techniques that put little stress on the digits or vulnerable joints of the hands.

For the recipient, the benefits of Thai foot reflexology are wide ranging. Various sources and clinical testimonies report benefits that include:

  • improved circulation in the legs and hands;
  • improved lymphatic drainage;
  • increased removal of waste deposits and toxins;
  • elevated functioning of the immune system;
  • reduced stiffness and improved flexibility;
  • accelerated physical healing;
  • relief from stress;
  • improved sleep; and
  • increased mental clarity and performance.

Next month, I will write a little about the influence of Buddhism on Thai reflexology and the ways in which practicing and teaching Thai reflexology have deeply impacted my own life.

Upcoming classes: Unlike the conventional style of reflexology practiced in America, which requires many hours of training to become proficient in, Thai reflexology can be learned in just two days of study. Visit here often to see dates and details for Thai Foot Reflexology workshops and retreats as they are scheduled in 2012.

 

A Short Class in Reflexology

If you’ve not had the pleasure of attending a live class in reflexology yet, you may be interested in watching a video I made for the Florida School of Massage (where I teach an introduction to hand and foot reflexology).

In it I explain a little about the theories behind reflexology, the longitudinal and horizontal zones, the reasons people seek out reflexology, and more. You’ll also see a demonstration of a foot reflexology session.

It was fun for me to watch the video. People always comment about my voice when I’m teaching, and I just got to experience it myself!! And if you’re interested in learning more about reflexology, I’ll be teaching a foot class in Orlando, Florida on March 10 and 11 and one later in Gainesville, Florida on July 14 & 15.

I welcome your comments and questions! Just click on the Comments button below.

http://youtu.be/hrvnnf7wzj4

 

Foot Poster Price Reduction!

While purging my office at year-end, I came across this review of the Academy’s foot chart from the July 2006 Massage Today magazine. I felt proud as I read it and would like to share it with you.

As I read the comments from the reviewer my thoughts went back to the many months spent working on the poster. Although I created the chart of reflexes, I hired an artist to render the design (since I’m not that good of an artist!). Kevin’s girlfriend willingly modeled her feet so as to provide an accurate anatomical representation, and since he was not a reflexologist, getting the exact location of the nearly 100 reflexes took many revisions. At completion, Kevin jokingly said that he figured he had earned a certificate as a reflexologist!

There are a number of good reasons why having a chart on your wall is a smart idea. Since I want more of you to have the advantage of displaying a beautiful and accurate chart in your practice, I have decided to reduce the price of the poster by $10.  Think of it as  New Year’s gift!

Here’s why having a reflexology chart is a good move:

1. They’re fabulous for teaching, since most people are visual learners. You can point out reflexes on the chart that relate to the areas of the feet that got either your attention and/or your client’s during the session. This opens the way for a discussion regarding the health of those specific organs and systems, what actions may be weakening them, and what changes might better support the health of those structures. And that might spur your clients on to taking steps towards improving their health, including booking more appointments with you.

2. Charts are associated with professionalism. They provide a visual statement about you and your business, and give your room the confident look of a healthcare office. Charts remind your clients that you base your practice on science and recognized educational models. Trust in your credentials and abilities is increased.

3. They’re an easily available learning tool for you. A comprehensive chart, such as the Academy’s, hung near your stool, can serve as a reference point as you work. You will see the location of lesser-known reflexes that when worked into your specific sessions will increase results.

4. Clients love charts!

So here’s what Massage Today had to say about the Academy’s foot, starting with a rating of 9.5 out of a possible 10:

“This attractive, professional chart is large, and that is a good thing. The 38 by 22.5 inch size allows plenty of blank space to allow for easy visualization. Foot structures are marked colorfully against a sedate background. There are a lot of reflexology charts out there, and many are too crammed with information in a small space to be of much practical use while working. This one is easy to read for the clients and for a practitioner to use during a session. The large size allows for some structures to be indicated that are not often on smaller charts (i.e. vocal cords, Eustachian tube, axillary and cervical nodes, etc.)

Left and right views clearly are differentiated, which is particularly useful for the plantar views. There also are dorsal, medial and lateral views, which many charts either do not indicate, or the print is too tiny to be easily seen. Left & right views are included in the dorsal, medial and lateral views; this is convenient, but redundant, in that the info bilaterally is the same (my note: that is true for the medial and lateral views, not dorsal). Still, the views offer a convenient no-brainer for quick access.

The whole poster is laminated on both sides, also useful if the need arises to remove oil marks. Grommets for easy mounting are provided in the four corners. I recommend this poster, and it will find a place in my office.”

Visit here to see a picture of the chart and ordering details.

 

Dusk on the River

My intention today was to write something on reflexology, as well as remind you that you still have time to register for this year’s Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification beginning February 2.

I considered Parkinson’s disease, hammertoes, menopause, phantom limbs, colds & flu – some of the many conditions that certified reflexologists commonly and successfully address. And then, in one of my many moments of distraction 😉  , I came across a blog post that so totally captivated my attention that all other possible topics faded away.

The article has nothing to do with reflexology or massage, so consider yourself warned, my friends! Hopefully though, like me, you are prompted to reflect on how you choose to respond to what’s coming at you in your world. Let’s face it; life does seem to be happening at warp speed these days, with impending events often heralded by predictions of gloom and doom.

I am referring to a blog post written by a Western woman teaching at a university in Japan. She writes about a reading/discussion assignment that centers on a lovely tale written by the American Buddhist Pema Chödrön.

I read this simple story, asking myself the same questions as were asked of Ms. Thomas’s students. At the end, as I read the comments expressed by the Japanese, I was reminded how easily I can become trapped in the emotions and perspectives which my culture has cultivated in me, and how differently we all might perceive a shared experience. I am thankful for the reminder this article gifts me: that my way – my vision – is but one of many valid ways in which to experience this wild and crazy ride.

Dusk on the River

And, by the way, I will write on those other topics at some later!

Five Chronic Conditions We Can Help

On a recent teleconference call regarding the future Healthcare Reform Bill, one of the presenters stated that the five most common chronic illnesses for which allopathic medicine has little to offer are:

1. Stress (including post traumatic stress)

2. Depression

3. Diabetes

4. Pain management

5. Hypertension

Looking at that list I can’t help but see the broader landscape of conditions linked to these common complaints. Modern medicine now acknowledges that stress plays a role in up to 90% of all chronic conditions and that depression, diabetes, chronic pain and hypertension (serious imbalances themselves) all lead to other disturbing and often life-threatening health complications.

Alternative medicine practices, such as reflexology and aromatherapy are well positioned to address these five illnesses, and in fact boast a long history of research and clinical evidence to support it. It seems to me that tackling these imbalances before they develop further is the answer (if not before they even manifest). Let’s look at some results with reflexology and a few of these complaints.

Diabetes

John Guinta, graduate of the Academy’s 2011 Therapeutic Hand & Foot Reflexology Professional Certification, recently completed a seven-week research case study using reflexology with a man struggling with diabetes. There’s a lot to learn from this encouraging study. One point that stood out for me was the subject’s increased motivation (and follow-through actions) to lose weight and get moving more while participating in the study, both of which are recognized stepping stones to improved health. Newfound hope, coupled with John’s care and attention, seemed to act as a catalyst to do more for himself. That itself is worth the time of the study.

Brenda Toomey’s earlier report on the effects of reflexology on Type 2 diabetes is also listed on the same page.

Depression

I have lengthy clinical experience working with people with depression. One gentleman comes to mind who once told me that reflexology was as effective, if not more, in helping him heal from depression as his “talk therapy” sessions. “Counseling sessions,” he told me, “help me to understand the thought processes that pushed me into depression: reflexology allows me to actually feel myself healthy and whole again.”

Pain Management

If you’re interested in pain management, take a look at how reflexology affects musculoskeletal pain, gout and pain associated with endometriosis and fibromyalgia.

What sort of experiences have you had working with highly stressed people, or those suffering from depression, diabetes, chronic pain or hypertension?