Zeena Lemon finds out about reflexology

Having rouble conceiving?

Plagued by headaches? Then maybe refllexology is the answer. Millions of people now swear by this alternative therapy. But what actually is it and how does it work?

The founding father of modern reflexology, William Fitzgerald, described it as "the application of specific pressures to reflex points in the hands and feet".

By massaging the various "zones" of the feet thought to correspond with particular areas of the body, it is thought that energy pathways that become blocked by illness, stress, injury or disease can be freed up, thereby restoring the body's equilibrium.

Reflexologists detect tiny deposits and imbalances in these pathways and by working on specific points seek to restore the flow of energy around the whole body thereby promoting holistic healing.

Reflexology does not claim to be a panacea for all ills but many different disorders including migraine, hormonal imbalances, digestive, back and neck problems have all been treated or helped successfully by the therapy. It has even aided couples with fertility problems.

The treatment itself lasts 45 minutes to an hour and requires you to lie or sit while the therapist works on your feet. A course of treatments may be recommended. Reflexology is particularly helpful with elderly patients who have limited mobility or who may be uncomfortable with other forms of massage that require the removal of clothes. It is also great for children.

'I thought it couldn't work -- until I started practising it'

Reflexologist Jo Bennett says: "Before I trained to become a reflexologist I was sceptical about the effectiveness of a seemingly simple form of massage.

"However, I began to understand the exact nature of what can be achieved and discovered how powerful this particular complementary therapy can be."

Jo has enjoyed success treating a number of conditions including irritable bowel syndrome and stress.

She says: "It is amazing how the feet are directly linked to different areas of the body. For example, before treating women I always check if they have a coil fitted because too much pressure applied to the area corresponding with the reproductive system can actually move a coil from its correct position. In fact, that is why reflexology can be successful as an aid to fertility."

Contacts

* Jo Bennett trained via the Vocational Training Charitable Trust (www.vtct.org.uk), a government-approved awarding body, and belongs to the Institute of Holistic Therapists. Her training involved learning about anatomy and physiology. Contact her on 01905 758803.

* The Association of Refelxologists: www.aor.org.uk

* The British Reflexology Association: www.britreflex.co.uk