Reflexologists from around the world will band together to promote their form of bodywork, Reflexology, this September. Whether applied to the feet, hands, ears or all three maps, Reflexologists work to bring balance and harmony to clients through specific finger and thumb pressure techniques specific to their modality.
The International Council of Reflexologists, a global organization supporting Reflexology and Reflexology practitioners, was first founded in 1990 in Toronto, Canada. The ICR board of directors hail from all parts of the world with strong support in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa.
World Reflexology Week
Each year World Reflexology Week, or WRW, is celebrated the last full week of September. Participants may act individually, in groups or in participation with their local Reflexology organization or association. Popular methods to get the word out about Reflexology include charity benefits, demonstrations of Reflexology sessions in public places, and lectures or presentations to groups.
One group of Reflexologists and Reflexology students go to their local health food store and offer sample sessions of Reflexology to the store’s customers. A Reflexology association attends an annual health fair, also offering sample sessions.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a form of bodywork that is applied to the feet, hands and/or ears. It draws a rich history from many ancient cultures including the Egyptians, Native Americans and Chinese. Reflexologists believe that the body is reflected on these extremities with a reflex point corresponding to each organ, body part and gland. By stimulating these points the Reflexologist encourages the client’s body to find a deep form of relaxation and therefore activates the body’s natural healing abilities.
Theories of how Reflexology works include the Central Nervous System, the relaxation response, Traditional Chinese Medicine’s meridian system and more. Studies of Reflexology have shown this form of touch therapy are beneficial for a myriad of conditions such as premenstrual syndrome or PMS, headaches, infertility, multiple sclerosis, cancer and more.
Training in Reflexology is specialized and specific to the modality. Many countries have specific regulations or laws on the amount of training a Reflexologist is required to have prior to opening a practice. In parts of Asia entire programs are devoted to teaching the blind how to perform a Reflexology session so they can have a skilled trade and earn an income.
Finding a World Reflexology Week Event
To see if there are events planned for World Reflexology Week near you try looking in your local newspaper or community newsletter first. The local Chamber of Commerce may have a calendar of events posted on their website so this is a good place to look as well.
Do a search for a state or regional association or organization of Reflexology to inquire if it is planning any special events for WRW. A search for a local Reflexologist might also be a good idea to see if he or she is organizing an independent event near you.
Don’t wait until World Reflexology Week to try Reflexology though. This modality is something that can benefit people of all ages, from infants to seniors, and isn’t just for those with an illness or complaint. Many people participate in regular Reflexology sessions to maintain their good health and manage day to day stressors.
Amy Kreydin - Amy Kreydin, NBCRT, CCAP, BD is a Board Certified Reflexologist and Clinical Aromatherapist.
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