Reflexology

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology is a deeply relaxing, safe and non-invasive complementary therapy suitable for all ages. It was first practised by the Chinese and Egyptians more than 4,000 years ago, and was introduced to the West in the early 20th century. It works on the principle that reflex points on the feet represent every organ, gland and structure of the body and stimulating these reflexes can help specific problems and restore and maintain the body's natural balance.

Sometimes the body is in a state of ‘imbalance’ following illness or injury, disease or stress and energy pathways are blocked preventing the body from functioning effectively. Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances from touching the feet and by working on the reflex points can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body.

Reflexology can help bring relief to a variety of conditions including:

stress
back, shoulder and neck pain
sleep disorders
anxiety
headaches
asthma
digestive problems
PMS
hay fever

and many more health problems - both physical and emotional.

Benefits of Reflexology

Reflexology can help calm and soothe; improve circulation; encourage the body's natural energy pathways to become more efficient; help the elimination of toxins and impurities; and restore homeostasis in the body. Reflexology can help the body to heal itself.

What happens at a Reflexology treatment?

At a first treatment a consultation is carried out. This is completely confidential and includes taking a medical history and health and lifestyle details. It is also to establish there are no contra indications to treatment and if there are areas when caution should be exercised; to discuss the reason for treatment and to establish that Reflexology is the most suitable treatment; establish client expectations; and to answer any questions prior to treatment the client may have.

The client is seated in a very comfortable reclining chair and the feet are then cleaned with distilled witch hazel. The feet are examined and then they are relaxed using a number of massage techniques before the Reflexology treatment begins.

The actual treatment works over the whole of the body on the foot with very precise movements mostly using the thumb or index finger. Most people find Reflexology very relaxing and often fall asleep during a treatment. Sometimes there may be a reason why a part of the foot cannot be treated e.g. injury and so the treatment is continued on the corresponding area of the hand. The treatment ends with a relaxing foot massage.

The client is given a glass of water and after-care advice is given. This can include some self help Reflexology techniques to perform on the hand.

FAQs