Reflexology is a natural therapy founded on the belief that your feet and hands are a reflection of the systems in your body – where specific areas correspond to organs, glands and structure.
By applying gentle pressure to areas of the feet or hands, a Reflexologist can help the body restore its own healthy balance.
Reflexology aims to treat the individual as a whole, creating a state of harmony in both body and mind. It has the benefit of also being a deeply relaxing therapy, and during periods of relaxation the body takes the opportunity to heal, restore and energise itself.
Reflexology is suitable for all ages, from baby to adult, and can be especially helpful for long-term and recurring conditions. Reflexology is a complementary therapy and should therefore not be used as an alternative to conventional medicine.
The Benefits of Reflexology
Health
While it is not a cure, reflexology can be particularly helpful in managing many health conditions, especially constant or recurring ones that we might have come to accept over time as being a normal part of life such as insomnia, chronic pain conditions and stress and anxiety. Reflexology puts the mind and body back into homeostasis.
Relaxation
Reflexology can induce a deep state of relaxation, which improves the effectiveness of the treatment. Relaxing helps relieve tension and aids circulation, increasing the flow of nutrients, oxygen and energy to all parts of the body, helping with the removal of toxins.
Balance
Reflexology is a wonderful way of maintaining your body’s healthy balance and general wellbeing, reducing the stresses and tensions that come with busy lifestyles and giving us a space to reflect on the mind as well as the body.
Here are a few of the more common conditions that can be supported with reflexology:
Women’s Health
Stress & Tension
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Hormone imbalances
Maternity and Fertility
Insomnia and sleep disorders
Headaches and Migraines
Anxiety
PMT, PMS and Menstrual problems
Sinusitis, Hayfever and other allergies
Back pain
Depression
Menopause
Arthritis
How many treatments will I need?
Each person responds differently and the response can be immediate but more often benefits are seen after 4-5 sessions. Regular weekly treatments are recommended for the body to begin the self-healing process. Following an initial consultation, I will suggest the number of reflexology treatments I think we should undertake.
Can you diagnose my health problems?
Reflexologists cannot claim to diagnose or cure. Sometimes reflexology will highlight a specific area which is struggling or working harder to maintain your well-being. I will discuss my findings with you at the end of your treatment.
What happens in the treatment? Will I need to undress?
Reflexology is performed entirely on the feet, ankles or hands, so the most you have to take off is your shoes and socks.
Should I keep having reflexology?
After an initial course of treatment, many people check in monthly for a top-up to help maintain their natural well-being, or to de-stress. Other clients may prefer to get back in touch if they start feeling aches and pains and arrange a treatment as and when they feel need them.
Does Reflexology hurt?
You might find some areas sensitive to the touch, but reflexology does not involve extreme pressure in the way that 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 the body require a bit more care and attention.