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New Age Health Care - Way of Life Literature

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on the concept that different parts <strong>of</strong> the foot correspond<br />

to and are somehow connected to various parts <strong>of</strong> the<br />

body. By massaging the foot (or hand) the practitioner<br />

can allegedly detect problems and help maintain physical<br />

and psychological health.<br />

It is a very popular practice, with millions <strong>of</strong> people<br />

using it each year.<br />

While some reflexologists are basically foot massagers<br />

and only claim to stimulate relaxation and reduce stress,<br />

most go far beyond this. TreatYourFeet.com says<br />

reflexology “creates a physiological change in the body<br />

by naturally improving your circulation” and claims that<br />

it is “an effective technique for regaining better health.”<br />

The book “Feet Don’t Lie” says that “feet are a reflection<br />

<strong>of</strong> inner health,” promises that the client will “live a<br />

healthier, happier life,” and even claims that the feet can<br />

predict the future -- “where you are going is recorded in<br />

your soles.” Body Reflexology claims to be able to<br />

reverse the aging process.<br />

Many reflexologists work on the occultic principle that<br />

the body has an energy field that can be manipulated.<br />

They call it “life force.” William Fitzgerald, who<br />

invented modern reflexology in 1913, called it<br />

“bioelectric energy.” He believed that ten vertical zones<br />

<strong>of</strong> this energy called meridians run through the body, and<br />

by rubbing one part <strong>of</strong> the foot the practitioner can<br />

supposedly manipulate the organs and bones and tissues<br />

in that particular zone. Mildred Carter says, “By<br />

massaging reflexes ... you send a healing force to all<br />

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