Let’s learn more about Ingham and Asian reflexology treatments because did you know that for most people, the feet are the most sensitive part of the body? They daily take a severe beating as they support our entire body weight. Furthermore, most people walk around every day on unforgiving surfaces…… hot, cold, wet, dry, rocky, smooth, grainy or gravelly. While men customarily wear shoes designed for comfort, women often feel compelled to showcase their legs with extremely high heels. These look great, but certainly takes a further toll on your poor feet.
If your feet could talk to you, what do you think they would say? Would they be screaming at you due to all the pain you cause them, or would they thank you for the proper care and treatment they receive? Would they recommend an Ingham and Asian Reflexology treatment?
If your feet could also talk to the rest of your body, any idea how the dialogue would flow? The kidneys may well say you need to drink more water. The heart may insist on more active workouts. The liver may shout for a serious detox. Well, a trained reflexologist can hear these vital organs through the feet and guide you in taking better care of yourself.
The History of Reflexology
The practice of reflexology has been around for thousands of years, originating around the same time in Egypt and China. Extensive journeys during the Roman Empire era served to spread its use throughout Europe. Eventually, it made its way to native North Americans via the Inca civilization, becoming part of their traditional health practices.
This ancient form of therapy has stood the test of time in many parts of the world, leading so many people to better health. Today there are two main types – Ingham and Asian Reflexology.
Ingham Reflexology: What is it and how does it work?
As we know it today, western reflexology was developed in the early 1930’s by Dr. Eunice Ingham, an American physical therapist. She discovered that the foot and hand can be divided into twelve different zones to treat various regions of the body. This scientific system is used to naturally heal muscles and organs by stimulating predefined pressure points on the extremities.
This method uses the thumb-finger walking technique to pinpoint the pain in your body and then pressure is put on the corresponding location on the hands and / or feet to heal the ailment. It also improves blood supply. It is primarily used for releasing tension and stress as these factors are linked to many health problems. Ultimately, this technique is meant to promote wellness by providing health and healing to where it is most needed.
The Magnesium Bonus
Although Ingham Reflexology still remains one of the most popular forms, new modifications are consistently being made as therapists share their experience and new clinical discoveries are made. A recent innovation is the addition of magnesium oil as a lubricant it is more quickly absorbed through the skin than orally. It is one of those silent minerals that most people don’t even think about, but yet is vital for a well-functioning body. When you are magnesium deficient, which many people are no matter how varied their diet is, it can lead to a variety of health issues, including general tiredness and achiness.
When applied topically it can provide pain relief which is why it is used by athletes to reduce muscle soreness and inflammation. It can also provide respite from the intense throbbing of migraines.
Feeling stressed? Use a bit of magnesium oil to settle down nerves rather than turn to a glass of wine! It can even reduce hypertension which is also linked to severe magnesium deficiency. These same characteristics also make it a natural sleeping aid.
These are just a few of the wonderful benefits delivered by magnesium oil. Read more about it here.
Asian Reflexology: What is it and how does it work?
Also known as the Rwo Shur method, this too uses the thumb-sliding pressure technique with the addition of knuckles and a small wooden stick to increase the intensity. The wooden sticks are able to dig much deeper than the hands alone and enables the practitioner to feel the small crystals or grains under the skin. These crystals indicate energy blocks which are more easily broken up with the stick’s pressure.
The focus is therefore more on stimulation versus the relaxed feeling created during an Ingham reflexology session.
Another core difference is that Asian Reflexology is based on the principle of energy meridians. Although ultimately similar to the 10 zones used in Ingham Reflexology, there are 12 primary energy channels in Asian Reflexology in which the feet serve as the master control centre.
According to Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy, when energy is blocked, applying firm pressure to the corresponding point on the foot helps to clear the blockage by increasing the flow of Qi (energy) and blood to enhance the body’s innate healing power.
Yes, it can be painful, but a well-trained reflexologist gauges the condition of the recipient and adjusts accordingly. Afterwards, you will feel light on your feet and any pain you felt before magically dissipated.
Which one is for me?
Only you can be the judge. For pure relaxation, yet with health benefits choose the Ingham method. If you want to address any health issues through breaking down energy blockages then Asian reflexology may just leave you feeling like a new person. Or just try both Ingham and Asian reflexology treatments to assess which one offers the maximum benefits for you as an individual.
Where can I find professional Ingham and Asian reflexology?
Unsurprisingly, Ingham Reflexology is practiced more in the West than the East, and vice versa. There are places which offer both types under a single roof. For example, Taksu Spa located in the heart of Bali’s spiritual capital of Ubud trains all of its therapists in both Ingham and Asian reflexology styles. They have the added benefit of a nature-infused environment which is sure to set you immediately at ease. Check them out at here.
