Reflexology is the holistic practice that treats points and areas on the feet and hands that relate to corresponding parts of the body. Using precise hand and finger techniques, which improves circulation, induces relaxation, and enables homeostasis. This encourages the person’s own healing systems to be activated to maintain wellbeing. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet and hands to assist in restoring homeostasis to the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. Reflexology is a gentle healing art that dates back to ancient Egypt and China. An indication that even then the benefits of this therapy were strongly acknowledged can be seen in Egyptian tomb artwork dating from around 2000BC. This depicts a scene of the giving and receiving of foot massage. Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. While 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 recognize reflexology as a well-established, respected, and effective therapy. With ever-increasing levels of stress, it is important 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 health in all areas of our lives. What happens when I go for treatment? Consultation:
On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will conduct a full personal consultation. This will take into consideration your past and present health and lifestyle. The consultation enables the treatment to be tailored to your specific needs. In some instances, it may be necessary to gain your doctor's permission before treatment can commence. The Reflexology Treatment:
A reflexology treatment lasts for approximately one hour. As it is the feet that are generally treated you simply remove your socks and shoes. You will be invited to lie on a comfortable treatment couch. The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply precise pressure techniques to the feet treating specific points that correspond to all organs and systems of the body. Following treatment, any significant findings will be discussed with you. As the effects of reflexology are cumulative, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments. How will I feel after a reflexology treatment? To gain maximum benefit from your reflexology treatment try to rest and take things easy as this helps to boost the body’s natural healing abilities. Increasing the amount of water that you drink can help to flush the toxins out of your system thereby aiding the detoxifying process
Just listen to your body and put aside time to relax. 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 a part of the healing process.
