What Is Reflexology?

In very simple terms, reflexology is based on the theory that the feet and hands, lower legs, ears and face contain "maps" which correspond to all the organs, systems and parts of the body.  Contained on our feet and hands are points of the meridian pathways recognised by Chinese Medicine.  By stimulating these points, or reflexes, the subtle energies of the body are re-balanced and harmonised, leading to an improved sense of health and well-being. 


This gentle, non-intrusive complementary therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.  Many reflexologists work alongside orthodox healthcare practitioners to promote better health for their clients.


How Can Reflexology Help?



Studies have shown that 70% of illness is  caused by circumstances giving rise to feelings of stress.  These circumstances can be complex and varied, and may be part of the ongoing nature of everyday events and pressures, or due to a particular trauma or challenge in someone's life.  During illness, stress, injury or disease, the body moves moved into a state of "imbalance", and vital energy pathways become blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively.  Reflexology can be used to clear these blockages and help restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium. 

During a reflexology session, tension is eased, nerve and blood supply is increased and the body's own healing potenential is encouraged.  

Through bringing about a deep state of relaxation, reflexology may be able to assist people suffering with stress-related conditions which give rise to certain conditions such as:

Migraine
 
Fertility issues 

Sleep disturbance

Hormonal Imbalances

General aches and pains


Who Can It Benefit?

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may help to bring relief to people suffering from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions.  After having completed a course of reflexology treatments for a specific condition, many people feel it beneficial to continue with reflexolgy as an enjoyable, contributory factor in maintaining health and well-being.

Many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress - for some it is simply welcome "time out" from a busy lifestyle.  Some doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognise reflexology as a well-established, respected and effective therapy and it is often part of those complementary therapies offered alongside conventional treatment for cancer and other degenerative disease such as multiple sclerosis.

Reflexology enables people to take more responsibility for their own health care needs.  Reflexology helps us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain good health in all areas of our lives.

Please Note: Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice.  Reflexologists do not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.


What Happens During A Reflexlogy Session?

At the initial consultation, you will be asked to complete a Registration Form, detailing your personal and medical history to date, and also a Reflexology Consent Form.  I can then ascertain the frequency and likely number of treatments required.

If you have asked to receive foot reflexology, you will then be asked to remove your shoes and socks, and made comfortable with cushions and blankets in a reclining reflexology chair.  The reflexology itself lasts about an hour.  A hand reflexology session may take slightly less.  The reflexology itself consists of a combination of gentle pressure massage with thumbs and fingers, and "holding" positions.

You may become aware of sensations of heat or cold, other bodily sensations, visualisations, emotional responses - or you may simply relax deeply and fall asleep.

After this first treatment I discuss with you the ideal frequency and number of treatments likely to be required.

Within the following 24 hours, it is not unusual to experience certain "clearing" symptoms, depending on your individual tendencies, such as slight headache, increased frequency of urination, or perhaps some increase in emotional sensitivity.  Should this occur, all symptoms will subside naturally and quickly.  It is important to drink plenty of clear fluids following the session, and ideally arrange to have a restful time that evening.  It is common to experience much more restful sleep and an increase in a general sense of well-being and energy levels after a reflexology session.

A Brief History of Reflexology

Whilst the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as 'zone therapy'. He noted 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 now known as reflexology. She opnion was that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology is complementary therapy, which works on the feet and hands to help heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.