Reflexology is a complementary health therapy designed to promote deep relaxation and wellbeing. By reducing stress, individuals can optimize their health and build resilience. This touch therapy operates on the theory that specific points on the feet, lower legs, hands, face, or ears correspond to different body areas. Reflexologists focus on these points to achieve therapeutic effects.
However reflexology is viewed, it undeniably offers a period of relaxation, providing clients with one-on-one attention and supportive touch in a compassionate and attentive environment. Reflexology can be safely integrated with standard healthcare practices to enhance clients’ overall health.
Is reflexology suitable for me?
Reflexology is a therapy which can be received by anyone at any age, from newborn babies to those receiving end of life care, and everyone in between. However, there may occasionally be times when it is not suitable to provide a treatment. The best advice we can give you is to give me a ring and ask!
How many treatments will I need?
Everyone is different and the response to Reflexology can be immediate or sometimes take longer than one appointment but often benefits can be seen after 4-6 sessions. Regular weekly treatments are best for the body properly beginning the self-healing process. I offer treatment packages of 12 weeks with slightly longer sessions with greatly benefits longer term health issues.
What happens in a treatment?
Reflexology is performed entirely on the feet, ankles or hands, so the most you’ll have to do is take off your socks and roll up your trousers! During the treatment the client lies on their back on a couch or reclining chair, supported by pillows and covered with a soft blanket to keep them warm.
And don’t worry – reflexology doesn’t tickle! Many clients come to me with ticklish feet or worried about their feet being touched but find they can relax and enjoy the benefits of Reflexology.
How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
It is useful to give feedback to the reflexologist as this may show the response of your body to treatment. This in turn might help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs. After one or two 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.
Does reflexology hurt?
You might find some areas feel sensitive to the touch, but Reflexology does not involve hard pressing in the way something like a sports massage might. As a therapist I will be aware of the status of your feet, noticing how they feel, the temperature and colour. All these things play a part in understanding which areas of your body – as reflected through your feet – require a bit more care and attention.
Can you diagnose my health problems?
Reflexologists cannot claim to diagnose or cure, but during a treatment we get ‘feedback’ as to which parts of the body are working well and which are not. Sometimes Reflexology will highlight a specific area which is struggling or working hard to maintain your wellbeing; if a particular reflex point shows this kind of reaction I’ll discuss it with you at the end of the session.
For more information about the Association of Reflexologists, please visit
//www.aor.org.uk/