WORLD REFLEXOLOGY WEEK

Reflexology

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Egyptian wall painting from a physician's tomb dating back to c.2330BC depicting Reflexology

Reflexology is a natural and very relaxing, holistic therapy that works by stimulating reflex points on the feet and hands, which have been found to correspond with organs, systems and structures within the entire body.

By stimulating the circulation and autonomic nervous system, Reflexology can help with elimination of toxins, improve blood supply and boost the immune system, restoring energy and balance.

By putting gentle pressure on the feet it brings about a state of deep relaxation, which can in turn encourage the body's own self-healing mechanism to 'kick in'.

Misconceptions about Reflexology

• Reflexology is not the same foot massage, although some massage techniques are incorporated into a treatment session

• Reflexologists do not diagnose

• Reflexologists do not prescribe

• Reflexologists do not profess to cure (they believe it is the body that self-heals)

What to Expect

On arrival you will be made comfortable in a reclining position on the couch. After a preliminary consultation to determine your medical history and lifestyle the Reflexologist will examine your feet and begin the treatment by applying gentle, but firm pressure to the reflex areas of your feet. The reflexes cover the whole foot and each one reflects a body organ, system or area. Each of these points is systematically targeted and stimulated to encourage 'balance' .

Everyone is unique and may have different requirements according to their presenting problem (if any), but the reflexologist will cover the whole body as reflected in the feet - some areas may be sensitive to touch, but this is normally momentary and any discomfort will quickly pass.

A professionally trained reflexologist will notice subtle changes in specific points: sometimes congestion or crystal deposits may form under the skin in the area of a reflex point. In this case there may be a reaction such as a sensation of a pin prickiing but the treatment is normally quite painless. If crystal deposits or uric acid are detected, this does not necessarily indicate a problem, but merely an energy blockage or imbalance and this can be gently worked on in order to disperse and bring balance back to the corresponding areas in the body.

How Many Treatments Will I Need?

Your reflexologist will assess your individual needs at the end of the first session. The number of treatments will vary according to a number of things: lifestyle, age, sensitivity to treatment, the length of time the problem has existed etc. There is no hard and fast rule, but ideally an initial set of four to six weekly treatments may be enough to get the whole body back into balance in some cases, after which the situation can be reassessed. Many 'clients' so enjoy the sense of wellbeing brought about by the therapy, that they continue treatments on a regular basis to keep their body in a healthy state of natural equilibrium.

After Effects

The immediate affects felt at the end of a session may be:

• Deep relaxation

• An emotional release

• Light-headedness

• A feeling of elation

• A deep sense of well-being

• Increased energy

• A really good night's sleep

After the first or second treatment your body may show that it has begun the self-healing process. Although you will normally feel very relaxed by the treatment and experience a sense of well-being, sometimes people feel tearful for a while, lethargic, headachy or nauseous. Others may notice an increase in bowel movements or need to empty their bladder frequently for a day or two afterwards - these are all signs that the body is trying to rid itself of toxins. They will be short-lived in most cases and you may rest assured that the body is responding to treatment.

It is important that you relay this information to your reflexologist at the next treatment session in order to help them in formulating a treatment plan that is unique to you.

What has Reflexology been effective in helping?

Who Can Reflexology Help?

Almost everyone can benefit from the effects of Reflexology! It is suitable for all ages - the reflexologist will adapt the treatment to suit the 'client' however young, old, frail, sick or nervous they may be. Although reflexology is normally practiced on the feet, it can be done on the hands if necessary, so there is no reason to miss out!

All content within this website is provided for general information only, and should not be treated as a substitute for the medical advice of your own doctor. Please consult your GP if you are in any way concerned about your health. Complementary medicine can work alongside conventional treatment in many cases.