Map of the body
Reflexologists believe the entire body is mapped out on the soles, sides and tops of the feet, the hands and also the ears.
All the organs, areas, glands, muscles and limbs all have specific areas that represent them known as reflex points. It is believed that by palpating the various points (working on them) there will be a direct effect on the corresponding organ etc.
During a professional consultation a reflexologist would work on all areas of the feet, hands or ears, not just particular areas so that the body can take from the treatment what it needs. In the event that someone had a specific health issue, extra time would be spent on those relevant areas.
Here is a very simplified version of how the organs of the body are represented on the feet.
- The toes represent the head area including the teeth, mouth, nose, brain etc
- The ball of the foot represents the chest and breast area
- The top half of the arch represents all the internal organs of digestion e.g. stomach, liver, gall bladder, spleen and kidneys etc
- The lower half of the arch represents the intestines and bladder.
- The spine is represented on the inside of the foot running from the top of the big toe to the heel
- The shoulders are represented under the little toes.
- The reproductive area is located on the heel and the crease of the ankle.
