Last week we discussed the benefits of incorporating holistic therapies into corporate health programs using iridology consultations as an example. Today I’d like to talk some more about the use of alternative therapies to improve employee wellness and productivity, and specifically discuss the role of reflexology consultations in the workplace.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a healing foot therapy that dates all the way back to the ancient Egyptians, and has been practiced for centuries across many cultures including Chinese Taoists and Cherokee Native Americans. Much of today’s modern practice of reflexology is similar in philosophy to Chinese acupressure therapy where pressure is applied to certain points on the body to stimulate the natural flow of the immune system, relieve stress and congestion and bring about internal balance.
The most common type of reflexology practiced today was developed in the United States in the early 1900s by an M.D and physiotherapist who used these ancient acupressure therapies to map the human body according to “reflexes” on the soles of the feet. This is when the term reflexology was coined and became a popular therapy in western countries.
The idea behind reflexology is that these “reflex points” in the feet correspond to various systems and parts of the body, so by applying pressure to these points with specific thumb and finger techniques, circulation is improved and any stress, pain and imbalances in these parts of the body can be relieved.
It’s important to remember that reflexology is a complementary therapy that should always work in conjunction with conventional medical treatment and other good health practices, which is why it has been readily adopted by many health professionals such as nurses and midwives, and is becoming more popular for its positive effects on corporate health.
The Benefits of Reflexology for Corporate Wellness
As we discussed last week, the best way to guarantee better health in the workplace is through a range of preventative strategies that target any future health risks by ensuring employees are fully equipped to manage their own health proactively, not only protecting themselves from illness but also maximising their sense of wellness and vitality.
Reflexology addresses some of the core areas of good health promotion such as stress management, the reduction of nervous anxiety and improved sleep. Studies in Denmark have shown that reflexology patients cope better with work stress and have an elevated sense of wellness after therapy, which is why Danish companies use reflexology commonly as part of their workplace health programs.
Your health program provider can organise a reputable and qualified reflexologist to conduct one-on-one sessions with employees at the worksite. A typical session involves the practitioner asking detailed questions about the health status of the employee before gently massaging the reflex points on the employee’s bare feet while they recline and relax.
For most people, it’s a fun, relaxing and non-threatening therapy, providing a wellness boost and helping to increase participation and enthusiasm for a company health program where an interest in holistic and alternative therapies exists amongst staff.
For more information on Holistic Therapies, contact Healthworks on 1300 90 10 90 (International: IDD 61-2-9954-1888) or contact us.
