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Connie Zinn, with Sole Alignment Reflexology, has been a Registered Canadian Reflexology Therapist (RCRT™) for 11 years and became interested in this field after experiencing intense calmness and relaxation after receiving treatments. She began researching the benefits and found reflexology so fascinating that she wanted to pass on this knowledge to others.
“Every foot tells a different story, so it’s very interesting … ,” she said. “When we do reflexology, we look for the graininess in the foot that’s blocking the reflexes, so … we’re working to try and open up the foot to stimulate that area.”
Reflexology is rooted in ancient civilizations and operates on the principle that specific points on the feet, hands and ears correspond to various organs, systems and body parts, Zinn continued. By applying gentle pressure and targeted manipulation to these points, reflexology therapists can stimulate energy flow, restore balance and trigger the body’s innate healing mechanisms.
One big advantage of reflexology is it can enhance circulation and reduce tension throughout the body. As pressure is exerted on reflex points, blood flow increases and helps transport oxygen and nutrients to the cells, she said. This promotes detoxification, alleviates pain and can expedite healing to injured areas.
By fostering relaxation, reflexology also contributes to a stronger immune system, leading to an improved overall state of health, deep relaxation and improved sleep patterns, which are crucial to maintaining mental equilibrium.
The reflexology areas on which Zinn focuses include structural reflexology, lymphatic drainage, palliative, and cancer care.
Structural Reflexology
Zinn received training from a Vermont instructor in structural reflexology. This treatment focuses on the core areas of the feet, helps overcome tension and returns the foot to a comfortable and functional stage. This is accomplished by relaxing the long and short foot muscles that co-ordinate foot movement and releasing ligament strain for organized joint articulation during locomotion.
Lymphatic Drainage
Zinn has also received training in lymphatic drainage from an instructor in Wales, Sally Kay, who is considered the top reflexology therapist in lymphatic drainage in the world.
This treatment opens the lymphatic systems and moves them along so people can detoxify their bodies of impurities. It can also help with issues such as arthritis, asthma, eczema, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia, sinus problems, migraines, headaches, muscular tension, aches and pains, and premenstrual syndrome.
Palliative & Cancer Care
Training about reflexology for cancer and palliative care patients was received from an instructor in the United Kingdom.
Seniors can particularly benefit from reflexology because with age can come more aches and pains and slower circulation, said Zinn. Reflexology’s gentle touch can improve blood flow, alleviate discomfort, enhance mobility and support better sleep.
Furthermore, because emotional well-being has become increasingly important, reflexology can promote relaxation and emotional balance and contribute to a higher quality of life.
“Reflexology is a gentle touch. That is why generally most people get so relaxed that they fall asleep during treatments,” said Zinn. “It’s so relaxing. It takes you out of that fight (or) flight mode and puts you back into that state of relaxation. And then … everything can start to work on its own better.”
She added that people with anxiety — including many whom the pandemic affected mentally — may benefit from this technique.
For more information about reflexology and to book an appointment, visit www.solealignment.com or call 306-631-1933.
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