Denise Held, certified foot reflexologist, Reflexolo-Chi, and owner of A2Reflexology, earned certification in reflexology in 2007. “My previous career had been as a registered nurse, first in public health in Boston, Massachusetts, and Kent County, Michigan. I then worked at the University of Michigan Hospital, providing direct patient care on the urology, gynecology, surgery oncology and medicine hematology-oncology units,” says Held. “I went into reflexology as a way to extend my healthcare career beyond the hospital into preventive care in a community setting.”

She explains that the many benefits of foot reflexology include enhanced function of bodily organs and glands, leading to better health; better-feeling feet; and increased calmness and relaxation. “Foot reflexology is therapeutic foot massage targeting ‘reflex zones’ on the feet corresponding to organs and glands in the body,” explains Held. “Massaging reflex zones not only makes the feet feel more flexible and less painful, but it is also thought that corresponding organs and glands benefit from increased blood circulation, nerve conduction and function. Massaging nervous system reflex zones calms down the ‘flight-or-fight’ response, allowing the person to relax.”

Reflexolo-Chi reflexology is a gentle and melding touch that allows the tissue to relax on its own, rather than using force. Thus, clients experience little or no pain, and relaxed, natural healing is allowed to occur. “Foot reflexology offers benefits for just about everyone, whether they need a general body tune-up, less foot pain or decreased feelings of stress,” advises Held. “I have worked as a healthcare provider my entire career, and my mission is to help people feel better. My plans are to continue helping people to feel healthier and more centered through foot reflexology, one foot at a time.”

 

Denise Held has office hours at the Natural Healing Center, 2002 Hogback Rd., Ste. 14, in Ann Arbor. For more information, call 734-649-2891, email [email protected] or visit A2Reflexology.com.