What is Mukilteo Reflexology?

Reflexology, as defined by The Reflexology Association of Canada:

“A natural healing art based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet, hands and ears and their referral areas within zone related areas, which correspond to every part, gland and organ of the body. Through application of pressure on these reflexes without the use of tools, creams or lotions, the feet being the primary area of application, reflexology relieves tension, improves circulation and helps promot the natural function of the related areas of the body.”

It is believed that pressure applied to the feet (hands, ears) send signals to the respective body part, balancing the nervous system. Another theory is that the pressure causes chemicals (endorphins, etc.) to be released that reduce stress and pain.

History of Reflexology

Archeological evidence indicates reflexology being practiced as early as 2700 B.C. in China. Art (dated circa 2330 B.C.) implies that reflexology was practiced by the people of ancient Egypt. This evidence proves the rediscovery of reflexology around the world throughout history. The ancient techniques of the Chinese re-emerged through the 1980s and are practiced through Eastern culture today.

Research into the nervous system, in the 19th century, introduced the concept of reflexology to Europe and Russia. Medical practices created offering reflexology were soon abandoned with the discovery of surgical and medicinal sciences. Dr. William Fitzgerald  (ear-nose-throat specialist) introduced reflexology to America in 1909. The reflex areas were defined in 1938 by physiotherapist Eunice Ingham.

Benefits of Reflexology

Research studies from 21 countries shows that reflexology:

• Promotes Relaxation – using ElectroEncephaloGrams (EEGs), relaxation is indicated immediately 
• Pain Reduction – patients of various ages in a wide range of health conditions indicated reduced pain following reflexology 
• Alleviates Health Concerns – patients ranging from children with aggression issues to incontinence in the elderly indicate improvement with health concerns
• Circulation Improved – blood flow to feet, brain, intestines and kidneys are improved with reflexology
• Post-Operative Recovery Improved – reflexology reduces post-operative pain, reducing need for analgesics, which assists with overall recovery
• Physiological Improvements – as shown by ElectroCardioGrams (ECGs), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and EEGs, improvements were measured in blood pressure, cholesterol and other physiological factors following reflexology
• Medical Care Enhanced – helps phantom limb pain, neuropathy, hemodialysis and other patients
• Mental Health Benefits – improvement for anxiety and depression proven by numerous studies
• Used with Cancer Care – studies in seven countries prove decrease of chemotherapy and radiation side effects, including nausea, vomiting, anxiety and pain
• Pregnancy Concerns Alleviated – studies showed that labor time was reduced for women receiving reflexology through pregnancy. Also alleviates post-partum depression, anxiety, constipation and urination concerns. 

Over 170 studies conducted worldwide prove the benefits of  Mukilteo reflexology regarding stress reduction. The theory that the hands and feet indicate the tension level for the entire body, breaking the cycle by interrupting the signals maintains the body’s equilibrium.