Reflexology meets Yin Yoga Workshop Series (1/5)
with Debbie Hindley

Reflexology (zones of the feet that correspond the major system and organs in the human body) meet the slow, seductive asanas of Yin Yoga to unlock, unblock and clear specific zones & systems within the body & mind.

Partnering acupressure, meridians and touch therapies, specific Reflex zones on the feet interchangeably targeted with applied pressure, interwoven with yin yoga postures focusing on the same areas within the body to clear, detoxify & bring homeostasis.

This deep dive of combined healing using a multi-faceted, multidimensional approach to balancing the body (homeostasis) both through manipulation of the Reflex zones, accessing the associated area/organ/section of the physical, energetic, emotional bodies through the feet; as well as long, deep, slow Yin Yoga holds focusing unblocking the fascia in specific corresponding areas.

The ancient healing art of Reflexology has been known to humans for thousands of years.

It was first practice in early Egyptian, Indian, Native American and Chinese cultures. The earliest known Reflexology picture found in Egyptian tombs dating back 2330BC.

The origins can be traced back to the Yellow Emperor in Chinese history in the 7th century and around the same time in ancient India following the spread of Buddhism.

This knowledge then crossing to Europe and spreading into the east of Asia. Interesting to note that many cultures used the feet, as a form of medicine & healing, passing this wisdom down orally through generations.

The 14th century saw Europe include and start incorporating zone therapy, pressure on the feet. 

The 1800’s in the UK, working the zones of the feet as well as in Russia a direct relationship between the feet & different parts of the brain were being explored.

It’s both exciting and inspiring to see how far Reflexology has come in the 2000s. Now widely known for its beneficial balancing, clearing and detoxifying effects.

Now known by many as a preventative and a deeply healing and detoxifying holistic therapy.

Three Principles;

1) To benefit from the acupressure-like effects of the pose on the connective tissue by finding the sensation of stretch, not pain (i.e., coming to your edge, but not going beyond it).

2) To become still. Becoming still applies to the mind as well, and the mind can benefit from the stillness of Yin. But be aware that deliberate movement to find your edge or move away from pain is not fidgeting and is absolutely appropriate.

3) To hold each pose for a time. Different poses have different recommended hold times, but the minimum for a lower body focused pose is usually three minutes.

-Discussion / Overview of Reflex links to organs and prana/chi

-Fascia

-Foot fascia- connection to flexibility in legs/spine

-Connection between foot fascia and the spine

-Connection between open and flexible feet and the benefits to Yoga practice.