Reflexologists and other therapists are encouraged to find their “niche” within their modality. My mantra on that has been to ask God to bring those individuals He chooses no matter their specific challenges. Over the years that has created quite a varied bouquet of different needs. One of those is PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder).
Look at this list, and consider what these specific and general events all have in common.
Hurricane Katrina
Tuscaloosa Tornado
Joplin Tornado
Boston Marathon Bombing
911
Sexual Abuse
Ritual Abuse
Near Drowning
Veterans experiences in war
Serious accidents
Fire
Violent death of a loved one
Witnessing and experiencing any of these (and a whole host of other traumatic events) first hand may create PTSD symptoms in some individuals. Science Daily offers research showing after Hurricane Katrina it was estimated that the victims were 10x more likely to experience PTSD than the general public.
The US Department of Veterans Affairs features June as PTSD Awareness Month. Footsteps In Eden is contributing to that awareness by sharing with you the potential benefits of reflexology for PTSD.
PTSD Recovery Centers of America lists reflexology as one of eight therapies recommended to help those faced with this challenge. From their website:
Reflexology is a natural non-invasive healing modality which brings a sense of well being and deep relaxation to the recipient. Evidence of this ancient healing technique dating back to 2500 B.C. has been discovered in China, India, Japan, Egypt, and Russia. Believe it or not, there are more than 7000 nerve endings in the feet which access all organs and systems of the body. By manipulating specific points on the feet, the circulatory, lymphatic, and nervous systems are stimulated to encourage a rebalancing within the entire body. The body inherently knows how to repair itself, and the Reflexology session sets it all in motion.”
At the Reflexology Association of America conference in Santa Fe, NM, last month, I had the privilege of meeting and learning from Martine Faure-Alderson, D.O. and reflexologist. Theories she has taught for decades about the brain and about reflexology’s effects on the brain are being proven true through scientific research every day. In her book, TOTAL Reflexology: The Reflex Points for Physical, Emotional, and Psychological Healing, she has written:
Memories of an emotional nature are the most powerful on the cellular level. Reflexology can help erase this cellular emotion by restoring harmonious circulation in the contracted tissues. The lymphatic glands are then able to perform their cleansing work. The movement of the lymph gently erases the imprint made by stress, and those minuscule points on the foot no longer testify to the poor nervous and hormonal functioning of the corresponding organ. The cleansing process of the lymph restores the body to balance, and stress is absorbed through the autonomic nervous system.”
Last Summer I had the opportunity to attend an Acupoint Reflexology class taught by Kristen Radden, another gifted reflexologist. Her work is based on combining elements of reflexology with acupressure points in specific ways that help to bring balance to the body, mind, and spirit. Having incorporated this into sessions with clients experiencing traumatic symptoms has brought some wonderful benefits.
After experiencing an incident that brought back the worst of memories, Debbie’s PTSD was greatly aggravated. She shares,
Acupoint Reflexology helped me let go of buried emotions that had been trapped in my body for years. The nightmares decreased in frequency. I was not so anxious. I focus more easily. My anger melted.”
It is valuable to note that in reflexology the client’s position is a non-threatening one. He/she remains fully clothed, removing only shoes and socks. The work is done on the feet.
An official resolution by the National Foundation of Women Legislators suggests reflexology as beneficial for PTSD (and other health challenges).
For those of you who would like more information on exactly what PTSD is and its symptoms, please visit the National Institute of Health website.
If you are in the Memphis, TN, area and in need of counseling, Paul Berkes is a Licensed Professional Counselor practicing in Bartlett. His training includes EMDR. Professional Counseling and EMDR are among the eight therapies recommended by PTSD Recovery Centers of America in the above mentioned article.
Note: For informational purposes only. Reflexologists do not diagnose, treat or prescribe medications. Please consult your health care professional.
