As the body is designed to heal itself and has this full potential within, it logically follows that nothing external can heal the body. However, at times the body needs “help” or assistance to accomplish this innate desire. Chi or energy is one of the major methods of understanding the messages of the body.

WHAT IS CHI-REFLEXOLOGY?

Chi-Reflexology is a philosophical approach which combines the Chinese philosophy (including Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Theory), and Acupressure theory and practice to the science and art of Reflexology. Chi-Reflexology came about for me……. It was the rejection of standard Reflexology theory and practice that led to Chi-Reflexology and working with energy (chi) which ironically led back to a thorough theoretical and practical understanding of the basics of Reflexology!

Chi-Reflexology, like acupressure, is based on a hands-on, physical touch approach - as distinct from Acupuncture where needles are used. Chinese Acupressure is the older of the healing arts (acupuncture evolved from acupressure), but like two trees planted in the same soil, they have developed their own unique characteristics, and interpretations of TCM. The Theory is the same, but the application is different. Acupressure works physically and consciously with the energy, or Chi (Qi) of both the giver and the receiver. For example, acupressure techniques for the use of acu-points and reflexes of the foot and leg are significantly different to those used in Acupuncture.

There are three basic and simple methods of treating any chi imbalance:

• Sedation or Yin techniques for treating Yang or Excess imbalances;
• Stimulation or Yang techniques for treating Yin or deficient imbalances; and
• Balancing techniques.

It is the latter that is emphasized in Chi-Reflexology, although all three techniques are used, as necessary. As the emphasis of the Chinese approach is balance, harmony or the Tao (“the Middle Way”), constant use of either deep or light pressure, in the long term leads to imbalance, so both deep and light pressure are necessary to achieve a more balanced state of existence. Deep pressure tends to work on the physical and mental levels, while light pressure tends to work on the emotional and spiritual levels - another reason for the use of both to achieve a wholistic balance. This is a significant consideration for all Reflexologists and Therapists.