What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a method of assisting the healing powers of the body, and helping the body heal itself. It is both old and new.
We know that the early Chinese, Indians and Egyptians worked on the feet to promote good health. Today many of the same techniques have been incorporated into a modern scientific method called reflexology.
Excessive stress disrupts the balance of the body, and builds up until it eventually expresses itself in the form of illness, discomfort or disorder. Reflexology alleviates the effects of stress by inducing deep relaxation, assisting the body to regain its natural balance and encouraging the normal function of the nervous system.
There are natural paths for energy which run through the body, and reflexes in the feet which correspond to all major organs, glands and body parts. The therapist stimulates and works these organs and systems through the reflexes, applying pressure to the feet with the thumb and fingers.
Who can benefit from Reflexology?
Reflexology is a holistic therapy and treats the whole person, not just symptoms. As a result, most people can benefit from Reflexology. This therapy brings relief to a wide variety of acute and chronic conditions and is suitable for all ages, even children. Once the body has been rebalanced, regular treatments can help to maintain health and general well-being. This therapy is being used by more and more people - it is safe, drug-free and natural.
Recent studies have shown Reflexology to be beneficial to those in hospital to aid recovery. Many NHS hospitals employ Reflexologists today to offer an alternative health care option.
A Reflexology treatment
During the first visit, a full case history will be taken. This is an important part of the initial treatment which assesses where there are possible imbalances or problem areas
A treatment usually lasts for approximately one hour, during which time you will feel pressure on the various reflex points of the feet (or hands, in some cases). Some of the areas touched may feel tender or uncomfortable, but this is purely transitory and may be an indication of congestion/tension or imbalance in a corresponding part of the body. On the whole, the Reflexology treatment is pleasant and soothing. It will relax you and, at the same time, stimulate your own body's healing processes.
After the treatment (within the following 48 hours) your body may respond. Each person responds to treatment in a unique way. You may, for example, feel extremely relaxed; or you may feel tired and lethargic; you may also feel tearful, or any number of short-lived reactions. It is important to tell your Reflexologist about any such changes as they indicate how your body is responding to the treatment.
At the end of the first treatment, the requirements for a course of treatment will be discussed, depending on your body's needs. It is usual to have one treatment per week or fortnight initially, followed by monthly maintenance.