Reflexology is based on the principle that all parts of the body are reflected in the feet and hands and by applying pressure to these areas, it will help to balance the corresponding part of the body.
It has a history that traces back 5,000 years to ancient Egypt, India and China. It was introduced to the West in 1913 as ‘Zone Therapy’ by Dr William Fitzgerald and further developed by Eunice Ingham in the 1930’s.
Reflexology is a ‘holistic’ therapy, which means that it treats the whole person rather than just the symptoms of disease or illness.
Under the Association of Reflexologists’ code of ethics and practice, I cannot diagnose, nor claim to cure. A session with me is not a substitute for consulting a doctor. If your symptoms persist or cause you concern you must seek medical guidance and I will encourage you to do so.
Reflexology encourages the body to activate its own natural healing ability to restore and maintain its equilibrium. As part of this Reflexology may help to:
* alleviate mental and physical stress
* boost circulation of blood and lymph
* promote better nerve function
* eliminate toxins
* ease pain and discomfort
Reflexology is a safe and gentle therapy and is suitable for everyone from babies to the elderly. Many different complaints and conditions may respond well to treatment, including migraine, sinusitis, back pain, digestive disorders, sleeping problems and hormonal imbalances. It is especially useful in aiding stress-related conditions due to its ability to promote relaxation.
There are few contra-indications for the use of Reflexology. In the unusual event that treatment was not considered appropriate I would advise you during the initial consultation.
A treatment session will last approximately one hour. Your first appointment, however, will be longer as it will include a confidential discussion about your health and lifestyle.
Only your shoes and socks will need to be removed. The treatment will be given by massaging both feet and applying pressure to specific areas using the fingers and thumbs. You may feel brief discomfort in some places. This is just an indication of areas that may be unbalanced or congested and should ease during the treatment.
Different people react in different ways to treatment. You may notice a sense of well being and feel deeply relaxed. You may feel more tired than usual, tearful or nauseous, or have other mild, temporary symptoms as the body rids itself of toxins and begins the healing process. This is nothing to worry about and is a positive sign that the treatment is working. It is advisable to drink plenty of water after a treatment and, if possible, to rest.