About Reflexology
Reflexology
is a Complementary Therapy that works on the feet or hands enabling
the body to heal itself. Following illness, stress, injury or
disease, it is in a state of "imbalance", and vital energy
pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning
effectively. Reflexology can be used to restore and maintain the
body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.
A
Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For
each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique.
Sensitive, trained hands can detect tiny deposits and imbalances in
the feet, and by working on these points the Reflexologist can
release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole
body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination is
improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself,
often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.
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 observed 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 to help heal the
whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.
How
can Reflexology help me?
Reflexology
can be used to help restore and maintain the body's natural
equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work
naturally to restore its own healthy balance.
Reflexology
has been shown to be effective for
Reflexologists
do not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.
Who
can benefit from reflexology?
Reflexology
is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of
acute and chronic conditions. After having completed a course of
reflexology treatments for a specific condition, many people find it
beneficial to maintain health and well-being. Whilst many people use
reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting
stress, at the same time many doctors, consultants and other health
care professionals recognise reflexology as a well established,
respected and effective therapy.
With
ever increasing levels of stress, it is important for people 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 in all area of our lives.
What
happens when I go for a treatment?
On
the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a
preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health
and lifestyle.
The
reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the
feet. The application and the effect of the therapy are unique to
each person.
A
professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in
specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may
affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.
A
treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of
treatment may be recommended depending on your body's needs.
How
will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
After
one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way.
Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes
people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is
transitory and is part of the healing process.
This
is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows
how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the
reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.