Wednesday, May 25, 2011

The New Reflexology: A Theoretical Summary Part 1

We wrote this orginally after our Paralysis Project in 1980. The percepts have really remained the same which is remarkable considering this was written 30 years ago. Editor
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 Our views of the foot and of reflexology have changed dramatically in the last two years (since 1980). This view suggests that the foot contributes to two basic integrated functions of the body, the stride mechanism and the survival mechanism. The foot is thus a participant in the body's interactions with both the external and internal worlds. The following is a summary of the logical extensions of this viewpoint, which lies at the heart of the “new” reflexology.

The Foot as a Sensory Organ
The foot is a sensory organ and a participant in the functioning of the body. Just as any other sensory organ, the foot has its specialty. It specializes in the information which makes locomotion possible. This information is in the form of proprioception, a type of sensation from joints, muscles, and tendons, communicating that which is not always consciously perceived about their position in relationship to the rest.

“This view suggests that the foot contributes to two basic integrated functions of the body, the stride mechanism and survival mechanism.” of the body, so that posture is maintained by reflex movement. This is the raw data used by the Central Nervous System to perceive the body's position in space so that it can be maintained or changed to make adjustments to the changing environment.


Additional thoughts from the editor. 
This concept is completely revolutionary in the sense that the foot takes on a very important function. the foot is not simply a conveyance but also detects pressure, stretch, movement, heat, cold and vibration. The foot is also key to "ground awareness". Indeed to stay upright in a field of gravity on two legs is indeed a difficult task. And the feet and it's communication links play a key role in preventing disaster.  


Barbara and Kevin Kunz





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