What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a deeply relaxing, safe and non-invasive complementary therapy suitable for the whole family throughout every stage of life. It can help settle babies and toddlers, reduce stress levels and help restore the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.
It works on the belief that reflex points on the feet and hands are linked to all the organs, bodily systems and skeletal structure of the body. These reflex points are stimulated or sedated by applying pressure to the points on the feet or hands in order to promote relaxation and feeling of well being.
As a Reflexologist I work holistically with my clients and aim to work alongside allopathic healthcare to promote better health for my clients.
Is reflexology suitable for me?
Reflexology is a therapy which can be received by anyone at any age, from 4 week old newborn babies to those receiving end of life care, and everyone in between. However, there may occasionally be times when Reflexology may not be advised.
Will reflexology help me?
As a professional Reflexologist I do not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe. Reflexology is a very individual treatment which works with you holistically, so it is not possible to know in advance how you will react. The theory is that reflexology helps the body to restore its balance naturally. Usually, after a treatment your tension may be reduced and you will feel more relaxed. You might also notice yourself sleeping better and find your mood and sense of wellbeing improving.
There have been some positive research projects carried out with reflexology; however, as yet, there is not a large enough body of evidence for us to make clinical claims of effectiveness. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice.
Potential benefits of reflexology are:
- feelings of deep relaxation
- improves mood
- increased energy levels
- the release of endorphins, the body's feel good hormones
- improved circulation
- more efficient removal of impurities and toxins
- aids sleep
- helps relieve tension
- a sense that the whole body is in better balance
Reflexology can help treatment people with the following conditions:
- stress & anxiety
- stress related illnesses
- neck & shoulder tension
- back pain
- pain relief
- asthma
- digestive disorders & constipation
- headaches / migraines
- sinus problems
- insomnia
- hormonal imbalances
- menopause symptoms
- pre-menstrual symptoms
What happens when I go for a treatment?
A full medical history will be requested on your first treatment, and you will be asked to sign a consent form for treatment. This information will be kept confidential.
Reflexology is a very easy therapy to receive. After removing your shoes and socks you will be reclined fully clothed in a comfortable chair. I will apply cream to your feet and start your treatment with a foot massage to help relax you. I will then work over the entire area of both feet using reflexology techniques, either stimulating or sedating all the reflex points in turn. I will then finish off your treatment with a short foot massage. Most clients fell asleep during a treatment. Your treatment lasts for about 1 hour.
I will then recommend a course with treatment for you.
How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
To gain maximum benefit from your reflexology treatment, try to rest afterwards – this helps your body’s natural healing process. Caffeine can have a stimulating effect, so tea, coffee and cola should be avoided if possible, to help you relax.
Drink plenty of water or herbal tea over the next few days – this helps flush away toxins. Try to avoid alcohol and tobacco for the rest of the day if possible too.
After your treatments your body may respond in a very noticeable way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; however, sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is usually transitory and Reflexologists believe that it is part of the healing process. It is useful to give feedback to me at your next treatment as this may show the response of your body to treatment. This in turn will help me to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.
A brief history of reflexology
Reflexology is based on an ancient form of therapy. There is evidence of some form of foot and hand therapy being practised in China as long ago as 4,000 B.C. and also in Egypt, as depicted in the tomb of Ankmahor (highest official after the Pharaoh) at Saqqara, which is also known as the physicians tomb. This Egyptian wall painting is dated at the 6th dynasty, about 2330 B.C. The North American tribes of Indians are known to have practised a form of foot therapy for hundreds of years.
Modern reflexology was not introduced to the West until Dr William Fitzgerald developed 'Zone therapy'. He believed that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.
In the 1930's, Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is known as reflexology. Her opinion was that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.
