66 October 2014 www.womanthismonth.com Managing Pain and Anxiety Humans have always sought methods of easing emotional and physical discomfort. Ancient literature is filled with formulas, descriptions of remedies, and examples of manoeuvres and procedures aimed at easing pain. While many of these have been forever lost to history, practices such as reflexology have not only survived, but are enjoying resurgence in popularity. Research focusing on this technique’s potential utility in pain management is increasing. It is believed that reflexology began in China roughly 5,000 years ago. The ancient Chinese, particularly the Taoists, were known to heal the whole body by tapping pressure points on the feet. They exerted pressure on specific body parts, or zones, in patients to determine whether this provided substantive and lasting pain relief. In addition, it is thought that applying pressure to regions of the foot corresponded to relief in other, more centrally located, areas of the body. Reflexology’s use of controlled pressure for analgesia may be as effective for promoting good health and for preventing illness as it may be for relieving symptoms of stress, injury and illness. Reflexologists today work from maps of predefined pressure points located on the hands and feet. “The professional masseuses at Joz Salon & Spa divide the human body into 10 equal longitudinal zones running from head to toe. In theory, these pressure points can affect bodily organs and glands,” explains Vinny Aseeja, business development head at Joz Beauty Division. The science behind reflexology Reflexology uses subtle pressure on specific muscle areas of the feet or hands to stimulate blood flow and nerve impulses that then trigger the release of endorphins and retained toxins. The majority of clinical trials examining the efficacy of reflexology have targeted conditions involving pain management and anxiety. Many practices combine this therapy with other similar alternative practices, so the cost is often a combination of more than one type of treatment. No trial found any adverse effects of the therapy. On the contrary, most anecdotal comments are positive. Benefits such as not having to move a bedridden individual or remove clothing are some reasons for people to try this form of therapy. “When choosing any sort of alternative therapy, the first question is always safety. Healthcare professionals that support the holistic treatment of patients should have no misgivings about trying reflexology, specifically those who desire natural treatments,” Vinny adds. Joz Salon & Spa has branches in Amwaj and Juffair. Book an appointment for a reflexology session. Call 16 031-120, 17 756-449 or 17 369-133. beauty It is difficult to pinpoint precisely where reflexology originated and how it evolved. Joz Salon & Spa has taken a modern approach to the practice.
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