Research findings reveal that it is human nature to crave to touch and to be touched. The longing to be touched is a basic human instinct. This longing starts as early as feotus formation in the mother’s womb and continues until old age.

The use of touch in a positive and non invasive way is believed to have healing effects on the human body and mind. This is the art of reflexology.

Reflexology by definition is a science which deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body.

For example; the tips of the toes reflect the head, the area around the ball of the foot corresponds to the heart and chest, the liver, the arch of the foot is linked to the pancreas and kidney while the low back and intestines are towards the heel.

This art of touch is commonly mistaken for massage due to their similar effects of relaxation. However unlike massage which is purely a leisurely treat, reflexology is tied to numerous health benefits.

According to John Paul Kayigamba, a reflexologist at Eden Memory Research Centre (EMRC) Kigali, this art of touch has existed for thousands of years and millions have benefited from its health advantages.

"The principle of reflexology has been enhanced and used by practitioners to improve the health status of their clients. This technique has been passed on for generations and those who have learnt about its health benefits are happy with the results,” Kayigambe said.

The Egyptian culture as early as 2330 B.C, practiced reflexology. However, the first book on well researched and developed reflexology was first published by Eunice Ingham, the pioneer of this field.

From 1942 to date, numerous reflexology workshops and research centres have since sprouted all over the world.

Kayigamba further explains that reflexology is a precise and purely natural art that can be learnt and practiced by anyone.

"No medicine is required for reflexology. All that is required is the use of your hands to apply firm pressure on someone’s feet. This when properly done, promotes relaxation, improves circulation, reduces pain, soothes tired feet, and promotes overall healing,” he further explained.

A typical reflexology treatment session, according to Kayigamba begins with consultation about a client’s health and lifestyle. Thereafter, an hour long reflexology session is undertaken.

"During these sessions, I ask clients to remove their shoes and socks and sit comfortably on a chair or massage table. They remain fully clothed as I examine their feet and apply pressure from the toes to the heel at various areas of tension,” the Reflexologist said.

Scientific research shows that, the art of touch has promoted the healing of numerous conditions like stress, headaches, digestive disorders, insomnia (lack of sleep), hormonal imbalances, menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), back pain and sports injuries among others.

This sounds like a dream come true for many ailed by disease, however it is wise to take precautions.

"Taking precaution is vital especially for women who are within the first three months of pregnancy or those whose moon is full,” warned Kayigamba.

Though doctors agree that over 75 percent of health problems are linked to nervous stress and tension, reflexology is a supplementary therapy that should never be replaced by medical treatment.

Louise Dusabe is a former kidney patient who attributes her healing to reflexology. Formally, she sought medical treatment for two years and was still diagnosed with a chronic kidney disease.

"When my doctor advised my parents to take me for reflexology sessions, my healing came after a period of five months. I did these sessions under constant medical follow up and eventually it was confirmed by the doctors that I was healed,” narrated Dusabe.

Today, Dusabe is happily pursuing a reflexology course through which she believes she can make a difference in other people’s lives. The art of touch when properly administered can be beneficial to health.

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