What is Reflexology?
Reflexology can be many things to many people. But please don't think of it as a foot massage.
Reflexology is a precise complementary therapy, not to be confused with a beauty treatment. Nor thought of as an alternative to conventional medicine, but as complementary to any medical treatment being received.
Reflexologists believe that the feet reflect the body and that all the organs and glands are represented somewhere on the feet. By applying gentle pressure to the feet in an accurate and well-formulated manner we believe that we are working indirectly with each and every area of the body. By doing so our aim is to help create the conditions in which our clients own powerful healing system can work to the best of its ability.
With Reflexology all aspects of the client are taken into account to help with overall well-being. Put simply holistic means 'whole'. You have probably heard the expression 'Mind, Body and Spirit', and it easily follows that if the physical body is unwell or in pain, for example, if you were suffering from migraine, then the mind will not be as sharp as you might wish and your spirits will be low as a result. Reflexology can reduce stress by inducing deep relaxation. In this way, it can be particularly helpful in combating recurring and long-term conditions.
Professional Reflexologists, therefore, believe that your treatment should always be holistic in order to maintain a balance in these interlinked areas. To a reflexologist each and every area, organ and gland of the body are reflected somewhere in the feet. By applying gentle finger and thumb pressure to work with these reflexes, any imbalances will be felt by the skilled practitioner and in this way, they are able to discover which are in need of particular attention. By using these special skills the reflexologist aims to return the body's systems to a natural state of balance, working together at their best, and encouraging the recipients own natural healing capabilities. At the end of your treatment, your reflexologist will be able to advise you as to a suitable course of treatment.
However, please do not expect a reflexologist to diagnose. It is strictly against our code of ethics to do so. Reflexology may reduce stress by helping a client to relax, and it is thought that over 80% of illnesses can be related to stress. Reflexology, in the hands of a well trained and properly qualified practitioner, a Professional Reflexologist, is perhaps the most powerful of all complementary therapies, and whilst no properly qualified reflexologist will ever claim to cure, experience shows that very positive benefits may be gained through the use of this therapy.
So...Why Should I Try Reflexology?
Reflexology is wonderfully relaxing. And everyone can benefit from some time taken to relax and reduce the stresses of today’s busy lifestyle. However, many clients report that reflexology can be particularly helpful in dealing with many of those long term and recurring conditions that many of us think we just must accept as normal.
Reflexologists often talk about ‘balancing’ the body. This is because we work holistically, and our aim is to achieve and help maintain a balance with our client’s mind, body and spirit.
To explain, most of us, at one time or another don’t quite feel ourselves. A bit off colour perhaps or we may develop a condition that we can’t seem to clear. This is what reflexologists mean by being out of ‘balance’. I have been trained to feel imbalances within the reflexes of the feet or hands and what to do to help these areas achieve that state of balance. This in turn helps to stimulate the body’s own healing process, and the method by which I aim to help you.
What Happens at a Treatment?
An initial consultation takes place during which your problem can be discussed in complete confidence. You will be asked some questions which will help me to formulate your own personal treatment plan. At the first session it is a good idea to bring with you a note of any medication you are taking, together with the dosage.
After removing your footwear and being made comfortable on a couch, I will be working on the feet, (or the hands where appropriate). Gentle pressure is applied with only the fingers and thumbs in order to feel the various reflex areas and points, and to find which, if any, need particular attention.
As the recipient of reflexology, you may feel very relaxed and calm. Many clients report an increase in energy and find their productivity and creativity improve. General health may also improve with the help of regular treatment, and we know it can help in a preventative way, by boosting the immune system.
Probably the worst thing that can happen to you at a treatment is that you will have the most relaxing hour ever!
To read more about Reflexology and what it might do for you, read more articles on our blog, and to find a Professional Reflexologist near you, just click HERE