History of Reflexology

Records indicate that Reflexology was used in Ancient Egypt as far back as 2500BC. From ancient texts, illustrations and artefacts, we know that the early Chinese, Japanese, Indians, Russians and Egyptians worked on the feet to promote good health.

Zone Therapy was introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald (1872 – 1974) who claimed he had discovered that applying pressure had an anaesthetic effect on other areas of the body.

Reflexology was then modified in the 1930’s and 1940’s by Eunice D. Ingham (1889 – 1974) who is considered ‘The Godmother of Reflexology’. A nurse and physiotherapist, Eunice Ingham claimed the hands and feet were especially sensitive, and mapped the entire body into ‘reflexes’ on the feet.

Her opinion was that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body she went onto rename zone therapy to ‘Reflexology’. Her methods are prominent all over the world.

The fact that is has existed for such a long time is for a very good reason. It works!