What is reflexology?
Reflexology is a therapy performed on the feet (or hands) using special manipulation and pressure. A powerful therapy that can have far-reaching effects on health and well-being, reflexology is a science based on the principle that reflexes in the feet or hands relate to the internal organs and other structures of the body. It is an holistic therapy and a course of treatments has many benefits.
Reflexology is well known for reducing levels of mental and physical stress. It can be blissfully relaxing and these effects are cumulative. It relaxes muscular tension and, with further treatment, the relaxed state becomes well established leading to improved circulation of blood and lymph. The treatment also promotes good muscle tone through nerve stimulation, so reflexology can help compensate for lack of mobility in cases of illness.
Where did it come from?
The practice of reflexology has its roots in many ancient civilisations. Healing traditions in Egypt, India, Japan, China and Europe used areas of the feet to induce healing in other parts of the body.
What does treatment involve? Reflexology treatments can take up to an hour or more and usually a course of four to six sessions (preferably at weekly intervals) is recommended for optimum results. A trained Reflexologist will, like other professionals in complementary healthcare, take a detailed medical history and lifestyle survey on your first visit. You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and sit on a treatment couch or special reclining chair. The general appearance of your foot will be examined as any sore areas cannot receive pressure. Treatment is often carried out to a background of relaxing music.
What is it like? For each person the application of the therapy is unique. The treatment involves light and firm compression massage to the soles and uppers of the feet. During treatment some areas of the foot may feel a little tender but you will find that reflexology is typically a very pleasant, relaxing and rejuvenating therapy.
What will it help? Reflexology can act as effective preventative healthcare and can bring relief to a variety of conditions. Examples of conditions helped are pre-menstrual discomfort; physical and psychological stress; back, neck and shoulder pain; sleep disorders; anxiety; depression; headaches; migraine; asthma; digestive problems; tiredness; lack of motivation and emotional problems.
Reflexology can help calm and soothe; improve circulation; encourage the body’s natural energy pathways to become more efficient; improve detoxification by encouraging elimination of toxins and impurities; restore homeostasis.
Whilst Reflexology has numerous health benefits, you don’t have to be ill to benefit from a treatment. Many clients receive the treatment simply for pleasure - enjoying the convenience of not having to totally disrobe, combined with the purely blissful melting sensation as the effects of reflexology slowly creep up and envelop your whole body/consciousness.
After a treatment….
Most people experience a sense of well being after a reflexology treatment. The benefits can be enhanced if the treatment can be followed by a period of non-exertion, a period of time without stimulants (e.g. caffeine, nicotine) and by drinking plenty of water. In the day or two following the first treatment you may experience a mild reaction as the body's systems balance and clear unwanted toxins. You may feel unusually tired (most people sleep very well after a treatment) or, conversely, more energetic. These reactions should not be severe; they are quite normal and are a sign that the treatment is working.