We talk a lot about medicine, supplements, and the latest fad health programs, but you may not be aware of simple “bodyworks” that help us to slow down the aging process. They are simple ways to mark the day-to-day small changes in our bodies and alleviate simple stresses, helping us age more gracefully and with less pain and aggravation. Let’s look at just a few!
Have you ever had anyone look into your eyes and explain that they can tell you about internal stresses in your body? If so, they were probably practicing a science known as iridology. Iridology is a non-invasive, safe and painless diagnostic technique. The irises of your eyes contain a unique pattern in the delicate fibers. This pattern is mapped into areas representing all the organs, glands and functions of the body. By determining exactly where a particular marking lies, an “iridologist” may gain insight into a potential health problem.
Most of us think of the foot as being relatively unimportant – until we stub a toe! At that moment all the energies of the rest of the body are concentrated toward that hurting member. So it is with our feet. Over a century ago, the feet were “charted”. It was noted that the feet were particularly sensitive in spots that directly related to areas of distress in the body. A chart was created that linked areas of the feet to specific portions of the body. Thus “reflexology” was born. In her book on Reflexology, Inge Dougans states, “The art of reflex foot massage must not be confused with basic foot massage or body massage in general. It is a specific pressure technique which works on precise reflex points on the feet, based on the premise that reflex areas on the feet correspond with all body parts. As the feet represent a microcosm of the body, all organs, glands and other body parts are laid out in a similar arrangement on the feet.”
Massage is a popular and well-known bodywork. But many of us think of it only for its relaxation and “feel good” functions. As an age-defying bodywork, it is also a healing art. It reduces the stress on worn muscles, moves lymphatic fluids and other toxins from body systems which contain no pumps, and enhances nutrient rich blood flow into areas that normal day-to-day activities may not complement.
And other age-defying bodyworks are the various magnetic arts and devices such as magnet therapy, and the use of machines like the Body Compass and the Quantum Magnetic Resistance Body Analyzer which use magnetic pulses to measure tissue resistances to help identify weaknesses within the body.
Many herb stores and health food stores have technicians on staff who use these arts and sciences. Fees for the service vary. Call and compare. As with any service, the cost will depend on many variables – how many appointments are included, the length of the appointments, the experience level of the practitioner, etc. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. If you’re looking for an alternative diagnostic tool to aid in determining your overall health, these may be for you.
For more information, contact Naturopathic Doctor Randy Lee, owner of The Health Patch at 1024 S. Douglas Blvd, Midwest City Phone 405-736-1030 or email pawpaw@TheHealthPatch.com Visit our website at TheHealthPatch.com.
