Reflexology, as a modality of Integrative Medicine, recognizes the importance of the person from a comprehensive and non-invasive care, enhancing the search for a physical, emotional and spiritual balance. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of a training program that introduces reflexology as an integrative modality in nursing degree education. Descriptive observational stud, in which 85 students participated. The students responded the SF12v2 health questionnaire and the TMMS24 emotional intelligence questionnaire pre-post the teaching program. The perceived effects during and among sessions were also collected. Their personal experience was collected as well through their own stories. Conclusions. Reflexology promotes physical and emotional well-being, facilitating an integrative understanding of the body and health. It is necessary to include them in the health science teaching programs.

1. INTEGRATIVE NURSING
EFFECTS ON A TRAINING REFLEXOLOGY PROGRAM
Authors: Esmel-Esmel, N1; Jiménez-Herrera, M2 contact email: neus.esmel@urv.cat
1PhD, RN, Associate Professor URV, 2 PhD, RN, Director Departament URV
Reflexology, as a modality of Integrative Medicine, recognizes the importance of the person from a comprehensive and
non-invasive care, enhancing the search for a physical, emotional and spiritual balance. The aim of this study was to
evaluate the effects of a teaching program that introduces reflexology as an integrative modality in nursing degree
education.
Background and Aim
background
Training Program
Methodology
Descriptive observational study, in which 85 students participated. The students responded the SF12v2 health
questionnaire and the TMMS24 emotional intelligence questionnaire pre-post the teaching program. The perceived effects
during and among sessions were also collected. Their personal experience was collected as well through their own stories.
Quantitative Results: The SF12v2 results were no significative. TMMS24 results showed an improvement in the
quality of life and emotional well-being. Relaxation and well-being were the most perceived effects. No adverse effects
were observed.
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Results
"I had heard about the feet, but I was not aware of the
great bond that these have with the body ..."
• Mental health
Emotions Category
• Body awareness
Physical perceptions Category
• Learnings
Difficulties Category
EFFECTS AMONG SESSIONS
The words used by the
participants to describe
their experiences of
relaxation were
grouped according to
Smith’s categories
""At first I was nervous…
I gained confidence”
"It was very difficult to have to remove my shoes and
expose my foot ... to be touched ..."
Reflexology is a modality of integrative nursing, which promotes an integral view of the person. Through touch, perception
and presence, it establishes a unique dialogue, which allows the application of a compassionate care, within a framework
of co-creativity. It helps release stress, it promotes relaxation, physical and emotional well-being and it facilitates an
integrative understanding of the body and health. It should be included in nursing training programs.
Discussion and Conclussion
Mood Sleep quality Vitality Wellness Concentration Motivation
Session 1 Session2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5
Relaxation Sleepiness Concern Wellness
Session 1 Session2 Session 3 Session 4 Session 5
Session (S) P (S2) P (S3) P (S4) P (S5)
Mood 0,001 <0,001 <0,001 0,002
Sleep quality <0,001 <0,001 <0,001 <0,001
Vitality 0,006 <0,001 0,001 <0,001
Wellness <0,001 0,004 <0,001 <0,001
Concentration
0,075 0,003 0,003 0,004
Motivation 0,002 0,030 0,008 <0,001
TMMS24 PRE TMMS24 POS
Perception Comprehension Regulation Perception Comprehension Regulation
high medium low
EFFECTS DURING SESSION
CREATIVE WORKSHOP LEARNING
REFLEX ZONES DRAWNING
PRESENCE ATENTION PERCEPTION, AWERENESS
PRACTICAL LEARNING
Qualitative Results: perceived effects and personal recordings results showed an improvement in the quality of live and
emotional well-being. Three categories and three subcategories emerged. The stories revealed a new concept in the
understanding of integrative care, as well as the discovery of a new way of understanding the body.
ENERGÉTIC AND HAPPY “Much more energetic and vitalz”
SLEEPINESS AND RELAXATION “ I felt a sensation of relaxation
and comfortability with myself”
MISTERY AND REST “ Unusual dreams were unkwown people
appeard”
REGENERATION “I have fixed new goals and I look forward to making
them true »
GRATITUDE AND LOVE “ I feel gratitude with myself and the others”
COMFORTABILITY AND PACE “ Feel at peace whith myself”