Clinical Reflexology and the Human Body
The Nervous System (CNS)
The brain and body are continuously active, filled with billions of electrical and chemical signals. This ongoing activity originates from neurones, or nerve cells, along with their extensive networks of fibres.
The neurones located in the brain and spinal cord form the central nervous system (CNS), which is linked to the rest of the body through peripheral nerves.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Brain, spine and spinal nerve innovations.
Muscular and Skeletal System
Skeletal muscles constitute almost half of the human body's total weight and are responsible for generating the forces needed for movement and maintaining posture. Most of these muscles span across joints, connecting bones and working in groups. They respond to nerve impulses and can generally be controlled voluntarily.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Shoulders, neck, trapezius, psoas and hips/pelvis.
Cardiovascular System
The heart and the body's network of arteries, veins, and capillaries together make up the circulatory or cardiovascular system. This system functions in two circuits, continuously pumping blood from the heart throughout the body. As blood flows, it delivers oxygen and essential nutrients to every part of the body while also removing harmful waste products from the tissues.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Heart.
Respiratory System
For body cells to function properly, they require oxygen. The respiratory system—comprising airways, pulmonary vessels, lungs, and breathing muscles—delivers fresh oxygen to the bloodstream, which then distributes it throughout the body's tissues. Additionally, this system expels carbon dioxide, a waste product generated by the body's processes.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Lungs, diaphragm, trachea and sinuses.
Endocrine System
The endocrine system consists of glands and cells throughout the body, like those in the pancreas and ovaries, that produce hormones. These hormones are intricate chemical substances released into the bloodstream, where they help regulate various body functions, including metabolism, growth, and sexual reproduction.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Pituitary gland, pineal gland, thyroid, parathyroids glands and adrenal gland.
Digestive System
The digestive system is responsible for breaking down food both physically and chemically. After eating, food and liquids are processed by the digestive organs to allow nutrients to be absorbed in the intestines and distributed throughout the body. Any undigested food remnants are compacted and expelled from the body as feces.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Cardiac sphincter, liver, gallbladder, stomach, intestines, pancreas and colon.
Lymphatic and Immune Systems
The immune system, an internal defence mechanism of a healthy body, protects against the invasion of disease-causing organisms and is also triggered by cancerous changes in cells. This system relies on specialised white blood cells known as lymphocytes, which respond to infections or cell abnormalities through various methods.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Spleen, thymus, upper/lower lymphatics and tonsils.
Urinary System
The urinary tract functions as the body's filtration system. As blood flows through the kidneys, waste products are filtered out and combined with excess fluids to form urine, which is then expelled from the body. Additionally, the urinary system plays a crucial role in regulating the body's fluid volume and chemical composition, maintaining internal balance.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Kidneys, bladder and urethra.
Reproductive system
In biological terms, the main purpose of the reproductive system in both males and females is to create offspring by producing and combining male and female gametes. Hormones produced by the ovaries in women and the testes in men also play a role in shaping secondary sexual characteristics, like body shape.
Examples of the reflexes that are targeted through the feet or hands: Ovaries, testes, prostate, uterus, fallopian. vas deferens, penis and vagina.