Reflexology
Reflexology is a holistic therapy based on the principal 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 Hieroglygth was found depicting people giving and receiving a form of foot and hand treatment.
How can reflexology help?
What to expect during a reflexology appointment?
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 because part of the sequence is located on a small area of the lower leg. I use a lafuma chair, which reclines and is very comfortable. I use a mixture of Neils Yard cream and my own containing essential oil blends, so if you are sensitive or allergic to these products, please let me know I will use an unscented base cream.
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.
Aftercare
After a reflexology session you may feel very sleepy and spaced out but as we are all different you might feel re-charged and energized right away. 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:
Whilst your body is going through the detoxification process you might experience one or more of the following:
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.