DSC_0265I have been having some back trouble lately- the result of too much car time, picking up 4 year-olds, and the halting gait required to navigate the icy Chicago streets. So, yesterday, I went for a massage from my very skilled massage therapist. After working on the specific problem areas on my back, I asked if she would do some footwork to “reinforce” the benefits of the massage. Although she is not formally trained in Reflexology, she is a “natural”, and the results were nothing short of amazing. It really took my breath away to realize how clearly the trouble spots in my back show up precisely where the reflexology “map” indicates they are in my feet! Not that I need convincing after all these years in practice,  but there is nothing like experiencing the “miracle” of Reflexology for oneself- for myself! Besides confirming that the map is accurate, I also experienced very quickly the feeling that my clients report to me– a release of tension and a softening in the areas that had been seized up. The massage itself was clearly helpful, but the reflexology provided another layer of relief.  This story is a good example of why Reflexology is considered a Complementary Therapy— that is, it is very effective on its’ own, but also works so well in combination with other modalities. This is why many of my clients will see me one week, and maybe their Acupuncturist, Chiropractor or Massage therapist on the alternate weeks. After a while, each person knows which therapy they need and/or what is the best combined approach to provide optimal results. Here! Here! to integrating all the best tools in the name of wellness!!