Reflexology: The 5 Elements and Their 12 Meridians - A Unique Approach

by Inge Dougans (HarperCollins, 2005, ISBN: 0007198272)

I have recently been feeling frustrated about some of the books I acquired on the subject of reflexology as none seemed to really go deep on the subject of meridians and the five elements.  There were books on either one subject or the other but never a real one bringing the two together (but if you have found another gem, please do share!).  That is until I came across Inge Dougans’s Reflexology: The 5 Elements and Their 12 Meridians - A Unique Approach.  Inge Dougans is the founder of the International School of Reflexology and Meridian Therapy which has licensed branches throughout the world.  In this book she presents to the reader her latest research and techniques and makes the link between the Chinese meridian theory and reflexology, showing how their combined use in treatments can restore the body to its natural balance.

This work is described as a complete self-teaching handbook for students and practitioners alike linking ‘Eastern and Western approaches to reflexology, and health, making this a comprehensive guide to using the meridians and pressure points of the feet to treat a wide range of ailments’. The book starts with chapters on the foundation of modern reflexology (brief history, zones and meridians) followed by the principles of Chinese medicine (yin and yang and meridian theories, the Chi).  Dougans then proceeds to link both by demonstrating the applications of the meridians in reflexology, explaining the principles of vibrational therapies, the effect of stress in our day-to-day lives and the influence of the five elements on the cells throughout the body.  Other chapters give a very detailed presentation of the 12 meridians and the 5 elements, their related muscles, colours and ailments; the mapping, anatomy and conditions of the feet and how structural problems can be related to imbalances; to conclude with a long treatment sequence divided in to areas and describing grips, techniques and therapist positions.  Each chapter is peppered with simple illustrations and examples which make this book an extremely comprehensive volume.  

By including illustrated step-by-step reflexology treatments for specific ailments, treatments of meridian disorders, case histories as well as dos and don’ts, this comprehensive work is an invaluable tool for anyone interested in broadening their knowledge and making their reflexology practice more powerful.
 

Sandy Beaunay – Reflexology and Nutritional Therapy student with Kevala.