With an approximate history of 5,000 years, Reflexology has evolved numerous times all over the world. Some methods of Reflexology are relatively new, others draw from various bodywork modalities and even other forms of natural healing.
Reflexology Methods from the United States
Popularized by Eunice Ingham in the 1930s, Reflexology in the United States is a fast-growing profession. Here are some forms of Reflexology in America:
American Standard Method – produced for the American Reflexology Certification Board this method is close to the Ingham Method. The ARCB needed a style to uniformly test practitioners that sat for their national exam.
Flocco Method of Foot Hand Ear Reflexology – developed by Bill Flocco in California, this method works all three maps: the feet, the hands and the ears, in the same session.
Hot Stone Reflexology – the history of Hot Stone Reflexology isn’t clear but it has been popularized by LaStone Therapy Instructors and others in the U.S.
The Original Ingham Method – developed by Eunice Ingham in the 1930s, this method employs moderate to deep pressure and divides the treatment time in half, for each foot. This method originally went by the name Ingham Reflex Method of Compression Massage. The Ingham Method is perhaps the most common form of Reflexology and is taught and practiced around the world.
Vita Flex Therapy – not exclusive to Reflexology but primarily used on the feet and legs, this modality was authored by U.S. healer Stanley Burroughs, best known for his work in the “master cleanse” diet. It is thought that this modality originated in Tibet some 5,000 years ago.
Reflexology Methods from the United Kingdom
With some help from Doreen Bailey, Reflexology in the United Kingdom is a booming industry. Here are some of the more common forms of Reflexology practiced in the UK presently:
Gentle Touch Reflexology™ – developed by Sue Ricks, this modality believes the more gentle the application the more powerful it becomes. Very light pressure is used in a Gentle Touch Reflexology™ session. Training is available through the Sue Ricks School of Complementary Therapies.
Precision Reflexology – this modality links, or connects, two or more reflex points simultaneously. Commonly used as a hormone balancing technique – the practitioner will hold all of the endocrine reflexes at once to balance them together.
Vertical Reflexology – also called Vertical Reflex Therapy (VRT) was developed by Lynne Booth. In this session the client is seated or standing with the feet on the floor. The top (dorsal) portions of the feet are treated, in some cases the toenails are stimulated as well.
Reflexology Methods from Australia
SMART Ayurvedic Reflexology – the Stathis Method of Ayurvedic Reflex Therapy (SMART), was developed by Sharon Stathis in Australia. This method uses marma points, oils selected for the client’s constitution, and a three metal kansa bowl. It is a blend of Ayurveda’s Paddabyhanga foot massage routine and the reflex maps of Foot Reflexology.
Chi-Reflexology – a system developed by Moss Arnold, this method works to sedate, stimulate, and balance the qi (energy) of the receiver. Acupuncture's meridian therapy is a common feature in this modality.
Reflexology Methods from Asia
Rwo Shur Reflexology – originated by Father Josef in Taiwan, Rwo Shur is the primary style of foot massage being offered across Asia today.
Reflexology Methods from Israel
Co-ordinative Reflexology – developed by Shmuel Zaidel in the 1980s in Israel, this method explores the art form of Reflexology through a series of flowing techniques similar to dance. The method can be given by one or two practitioners and is quite remarkable to watch, and receive!
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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