The A.R.T. Manual

The A.R.T. Manual and DVD.

I am pleased to be able to offer the original A.R.T. manual and DVD as digital downloads. The original A.R.T. manual (first published in 1996) describes the original techniques of A.R.T. (Advanced Reflexology Techniques).

The DVD demonstrates the techniques explained in the manual.

However, I wish to clarify that the A.R.T. techniques were conceived to be used in conjunction with those of classical reflexology, which is performed with the fingers and thumbs and without lubrication. In other words, they are an adjunct to the classical techniques when a different type of contact is required.

A future presentation will demonstrate how both approaches are used during treatment.

Important suggestions

The first point to repeat is that the classical techniques (ie thumb and finger walking) cannot be used in combination with a lubricant. Always use the classical techniques before using A.R.T. techniques.

Reflexology is not about swamping the feet in a lubricant - it is not a foot massage! If too much is applied, the effect of the techniques will be neutralised.

Classical reflexology requires the correct use of the thumbs and fingers (without a lubricant). They serve as conduits for detecting and treating the ‘disturbed’ reflexes.

The type of lubricant

It needs to be one where it either evaporates or gets absorbed, which leaves the skin dry. An oil does not have this quality. There are several types of cream available which have the required quality. I suggest that you try these out on your hands first.

The idea is to be able to revert to both A.R.T. and the classical techniques back and forth during treatment; this can only be achieved when the correct type of lubrication, which evaporates or becomes absorbed, is used.

When these two approaches are used, a very effective fusion is achieved.

The importance of using the supports of the fingers and thumbs as shown

There is little reason for the fingers or thumbs to be painful if the correct supports are used.

Study these carefully. This applies to reflexology in general. I stress again the lack of proper support of the thumbs and fingers of the working hand, in conjunction with the position of the therapist, is vital in avoiding strain on the joints.

Make sure the correct supporting techniques are used. Do not apply too much pressure. Both for the sake of the receiver and your hands.

If pain of the thumbs, fingers or hands is experienced. It generally means that either the correct types of support were not being used or the therapist is sitting in the wrong position to that of the foot being treated. Do not continue if the pain persists.

Tony Porter Founder Focused Reflexology ® and A.R.T. ®