What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a holistic therapy based on the principle that there are reflex points on the hands, feet, ears and face that mirror different parts of the body. When pressure is applied to these points, it stimulates the movement of energy along the nerve channels where there will be a response in the associated area. This process kick starts the body’s natural healing ability, the flow of energy is revitalised, blockages are cleared and balance is restored.
Reflexology as we know it today was introduced to the western world in the 20th Century, however this is not an entirely new therapy as it’s roots come from the ancient art of pressure therapy practiced within Chinese, Indian and possibly Greek and Roman cultures. There is even pictorial evidence dating all the way back to Ancient Egypt where within the walls of physician Ankhmahor’s tomb a hieroglyph was found depicting people giving and receiving a form of foot and hand treatment.
How will it help me?
- Releases tension
- Improves circulation
- Assists with the removal of toxins
- Helps restore balance throughout the whole body
- Mood improvement
- Improves Sleep
- Helps general wellbeing
What does a treatment involve?
A full reflexology session generally lasts one hour, although for an initial appointment please allow an hour and a half as I will need to do a consultation and take a full medical history. The appointment is carried out fully clothed with the exception of sock removal and it’s preferable that you wear loose trousers. I use specially blended wax and oils tailoring the best blend to your needs (do please let me know if you have any allergies).
Throughout the course of the appointment I will be following a sequence and applying pressure to various reflex points, some of which may be tender but shouldn’t be painful. I will complete the session with a foot massage. The general experience should be deeply relaxing.
Finally, we can discuss any findings as well as any further recommendations.
Anything else I should know?
After a reflexology session you may feel very sleepy and spaced out but as we are all different you might feel re-charged and energised right away. Occasionally Some clients may feel a little teary for up to 12 hours after the appointment.This is a normal sign of healing and your bodies way of releasing stuck energy .
People usually leave feeling very relaxed and it’s usual for the body to continue responding several hours after treatment and often report having slept very well. A stand alone reflexology appointment will provide you with a balancing and therapeutic experience but the cumulative effect of several sessions is often quite beneficial to improve both physical and emotional wellbeing
To assist with the flushing out of toxins and to promote self-healing following your session it is important to take the following steps:
- Drink plenty of water over the next 24 hours
- Try to avoid heavy meals and stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol
- Allow yourself some quiet time and rest as much as possible
Whilst your body is going through the detoxification process you might experience one or more of the following:
- Feeling cold/shivering
- Mild headache
- Mild tiredness
- More frequent need to go to the loo
The above symptoms are just an indication that toxins are being eliminated and should disappear within 24-48 hours. If you have any concerns or worries, please do not hesitate to contact me.