Reflexology 

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Like most people, you probably spend a good deal of time on your feet, giving them a good pounding every day. Due to the numerous nerve endings at the soles of the feet, accumulated tension and stress in this area can have adverse effects throughout the whole body. Conversely, by working on the feet you are affecting the body’s autonomic nervous system, which in turn helps to relax the entire body. The feet can be viewed as maps of the body: all the major organs, systems, and anatomical areas have corresponding reflex zones on the feet. 

 

What to expect?

Reflexology is based on the idea that the body has a natural flow of energy. Any blockages in this flow will eventually create an imbalance by promoting stagnation within that part of the body. Reflexology helps to restore this natural flow through an organised and systematic application of pressure to reflex points within the feet, hands, and ears. This "pressure therapy" is performed by massaging, squeezing, or pushing parts of the foot, hand, or ear. Specific techniques using the thumb, fingers, hands and massage tools are utilised. A typical session will often feel like a massage of both feet in a calm and soothing environment. The session will normally last 45-60 minutes, however you'll also undergo a lifestyle and health consultation of approximately 30 minutes during the first session to assess your health or any specific needs. You only need to remove socks and shoes and sit in a chair or sometimes lay on a table. In one session, all parts of both feet are usually worked and by the end of a session, most patients feel relaxed and stress free.

 

The impact?

Reflexology is a complementary therapy often used in conjunction with other treatments and is not to be a replacement for consulting a qualified medical practitioner regarding serious illness. There are countless advantages of foot reflexology. Many claim relief from serious diseases, while others report no changes in conditions. After a session of reflexology, sore, tired, and aching feet are relaxed and revived. The benefits only begin there. Other results from foot reflexology are: 

• Stress and anxiety reduction

• Relaxation 

• Improved circulation

• Increase range of motion

• Reduction in pain

• Toxin cleansing

• Strengthen the immune system  

• Assistance in weight loss 

• Improved health of all organs

• Overall improved well being

• Enhanced sleep patterns

 

Before and after care

Due to health and safety, you will only be able to undergo reflexology treatment providing that your feet are in good health. This means that your feet need to be clear of verrucas, nail fungal infections, or any other signs of bacterial or fungal infections. If you are in doubt, make contact before making a booking so that we can discuss this in more detail. In any case, it would be kindly appreciated if you could wash your feet before attending treatment. 

After each treatment you will need to ensure that you might feel tired and relaxed, but also that your body will be detoxing. It is advised that you drink plenty of water and that you don't drink alcohol or caffeine, or have any big engagements such as going out clubbing etc. 

 

The history 

Reflexology dates back to ancient India, Egypt, and China. Archeological evidence found at the tomb of Ankhmahor (The Physician's Tomb), an ancient Egyptian physician, reveals inscriptions and drawings showing men engaged in foot and hand manipulations. Reflexology, or as it was called, Zone Therapy, was first introduced to the United States in 1913 by William H. Fitzgerald, M.D., an Ear, Nose, and Throat Specialist who worked at the Boston City Hospital. Fitzgerald claimed that applying pressure to the feet, hands, and ears had an anaesthetic effect on other areas of the body. Dr. Fitzgerald discovered that placing pressure on zones not only relieved pain, but in the majority of cases also relieved the underlying causes.

 

Need to know more?

For the latest research findings and to see why reflexology is surging in popularity, see: “What does the research say about reflexology?”

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