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Archives for January 2012

Jan 19 2012

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.

 

Written by Karen Ball · Categorized: Foot Reflexology, Thai Foot Reflexology · Tagged: Thai reflexology

Jan 18 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

 

Written by Karen Ball · Categorized: Foot Reflexology · Tagged: Foot reflexology

Jan 09 2012

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.

 

Written by Karen Ball · Categorized: General · Tagged: Products

Jan 06 2012

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!

Written by Karen Ball · Categorized: Foot Reflexology, Hand Reflexology, Deeper Thoughts · Tagged: Certification

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