Foot reflexology, one of my favorite healing modalities, fascinates me to no end. Imagine an intricate map of your entire body, compacted and mirrored in just one place - your foot.

Traces of foot reflexology can be found as far back as ancient Egypt, depicted in age-old hieroglyphs. Healers of the time were portrayed working on feet, indicating the practice's long history. However, the foot reflexology we know today, deeply rooted in the study of body zones, evolved much later.

Zone therapy, while not as commonly discussed today, is a fascinating concept. It posits that the external zone of the body, zone 5, is interconnected with all others, all the way down to zone 1, the central zone. Foot reflexology, a derivative of this theory, enjoys widespread recognition and affection today.

I discovered my passion for foot reflexology during massage school in 1996. I had the opportunity to be a model during our reflexology class, allowing me to experience expert techniques firsthand. It was incredibly relaxing. The technique mainly focused on zone therapy, with special emphasis on the foot's sole, where all internal organs are represented.

Fast forward a few years to when I was living in Brazil, and suddenly, I started developing chronic knee pain. For someone in their mid-20s, the concept of chronic pain seemed foreign. I sought help from various medical professionals, including doctors, acupuncturists, and chiropractors, but to no avail.

A friend then recommended a foot reflexologist. Visiting his professional office, I received an intensive session that mainly involved pressing firmly on the outside of my foot. Despite the initial discomfort and the seeming eternity of the session, something miraculous happened. After approximately half an hour, I was invited to stand, and for the first time in a year, I felt no knee pain. Anyone who has experienced chronic pain will understand the profound relief that comes from this realization.

The pain's absence allowed me to focus on life's joys again. After the session, I learned the pressure points the reflexologist used and continued to apply them myself. I can confidently say that foot reflexology has kept my knee healthy for the past 20 years. It has enabled me to hike, dance, bike, and even jump without fear of needing surgery.

This personal experience encouraged me to study with this reflexology master, allowing me to work on hundreds of feet over the years. I've imparted this knowledge to other massage therapists, my clients, and students, providing techniques they can apply independently.

The internet offers numerous charts for identifying the various points you need to work on. Some of the ones my clients and I have found most beneficial include:

The knee and hip point: This was my personal miracle point. To find it, locate the bony part on the outside of either foot and move towards the heel. You'll find a half-moon shape that you can press and massage with your thumb or a stone.

The neck area: Located all around your big toe. Massage the outside, the inside, and around the joint. Find the tender spots and press.

Shoulders: Located under the pinkie toe, work around the front, the side, and the sole of the foot.

Foot reflexology is a unique modality because it can be self-administered. You can foster your own health and wellness at any time – it's like having a little magic at your fingertips!

If you live in Santa Barbara and are interested in experiencing the Brazilian inspired technique, feel free to book a session with me. Head on over to my massage page.

Happy healing!