Reflexology has been around for over 4000, originally practised by the ancient Egyptians and Chinese but it was first recognised in the Western world in 1913 when Dr William Fitzgerald noticed that pressure on specific parts of the body could have an anaesthetising effect on corresponding areas in the body.
This was further developed in the 1930s by Eunice Ingham, who defined reflexology as it is practised today.
Reflexology is the technique of applying gentle pressure to the reflexes (pressure points) on the feet or hands to clear the vital energy pathways that can become blocked due to the stresses and strains of life.
The basic theory behind the practice of reflexology is that there are specific reflex points on the hands and feet that are "linked" to other areas in the body. Pressure to these various points can stimulate beneficial effects on the corresponding organs, glands or parts of the body to help you relax, improve circulation and help these organs or glands become more balanced.
It is also thought that the areas activated by massage of the feet may have something in common with the lines of qi or meridian pathways used in acupuncture.
According to the principles of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), reflexology is effective for preserving good health. Its main benefits are said to be relieving fatigue and tension, aiding relaxation as well as easing pain and other symptoms.
Some traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) physicians advise against reflexology during pregnancy, believing that it could cause miscarriage.
It is this age-old belief, combined with the lack of sound research, that may prompt a TCM physician to advise against using reflexology to treat pregnancy discomforts.
There is no evidence that reflexology is unsafe during pregnancy, if it is carried out correctly by a qualified health professional or a qualified reflexologist who is experienced in treating pregnant women.
Source: http://www.babycenter.com.my/a1036922/is-reflexology-safe-during-pregnancy
About video: Learn if reflexology is safe for pregnant women from certified reflexologist Chantel C. Lucier in this Howcast video.
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