Definition of Reflexology

Reflexology is based on the principle that certain parts of the body reflect the whole. Reflex points, which relate to all parts of the body, can be found in the feet, hands, face and ears. These points respond to pressure, stimulating the body's own natural healing process. The body starts progressively clearing blockages, re-establishing energy flows and balancing itself, resulting in better health. There are many different styles and approaches used in reflexology; however the basic principle is constant. Subtle yet powerful, reflexology is becoming increasingly popular in the world of complementary therapies. Reflexology Association of Australia http://www.reflexology.org.au/home2/index.php? option=com_content&view=article&id=2:definition-of-reflexology&catid=2:modernpractice&Itemid=9

Reflexology Association of America (RAA)

http://www.reflexology-usa.org/articles/definitions_of_reflexology.html
RAAs original definition of Reflexology RAAs original definition of Reflexology was: Reflexology is a science based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all glands, organs, parts and systems of the body. The physical act of applying pressure using thumb, finger and hand techniques to these reflex areas results in the reduction of stress which promotes physiological changes in the body. However, a better definition distinguishing reflexology from acupressure is: Reflexology is the application of specific pressure by the use of the practitioners hand, thumb and fingers to a reflex map resembling a human body which is believed to exist on the extremities. This definition deletes the description of techniques (which really are not important in a law) and describes more the theoretical basis. It also stays away from massage, but leaves room for those reflexologists who want to work from the knee down, and doesnt address the ears directly, or on the feet, hands, and outer ears could be used instead of extremities. The latest definition adopted by RAA (5/8/03) is: Reflexology is the systematic, manual stimulation of the reflex maps located on the feet, hands and outer ears that resembles a shape of the human body.

Below are other definitions used within the field, including legal ones used in legislated law.

American Reflexology Certification Board

The First ARCB definition: Foot and hand reflexology is a scientific art based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all body parts. The physical act of applying specific pressures using thumb, finger and hand techniques result in stress reduction which causes a physiological change in the body. To gain an exemption in North Carolina the definition had to fit under he practice of specifically intending to affect the human energy field. With that in mind the ARCB wrote the following definition of Reflexology in 2001: Reflexology is a holistic energy-based modality, working through the energies of the nervous, electrical, chemical and magnetic systems of the body. It utilizes manual techniques unique to the field of Reflexology. These techniques are applied to reflex maps resembling the human body, which are believed to exist on the feet and hands. (Note: Only the feet and hand are mentioned in the above because that is most standard in the field.) ARCB definition forwarded to Alternative Link (the insurance company developing insurance billing codescalled alternative billing codes or ABCfor alternative therapies under which reflexologists and other will be able to bill for their services) in September 2003 was: Reflexology is a wholistic discipline using the hands to apply alternating and firm pressures to the feet, hands or ears to stimulate physiological changes in the body through reflexes and the nervous system. As one can see there is no one definition that will work in all situations and yet, because of the multi dimensional affect of Reflexology all are true at defining the work we do.

ACARET (American Commission for Accreditation of Reflexology Education and Training) Definition
Reflexology is a manual technique on specific reflex points on specific zones within main microcosms on the body (i.e. feet, hands and ears). This brings about psychological and physiological normalization of the total body.

Reflexology Definition Reflexology is the physical act of applying pressure to the feet and hands with techniques that do not utilize oil, cream or lotion. Technique application is assessed on the basis of zones and reflex areas. (American definition first published by Kunz and Kunz in 1981.) http://www.reflexology-research.com/DEFINE_1.html