Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY?
The theory behind reflexology is that there are points (reflexes) on the feet and hands which reflect a mini map of the body and all its systems.
Reflexologists are trained to detect imbalances in these reflexes which can then be released through pressure techniques, allowing energy to flow freely to the corresponding part of the body.
Reflexology is a complementary therapy and never a substitute for seeking medical advice – however it can help you to feel good, and many clients choose reflexology to support them during medical treatment for various conditions such as digestive problems, depression, migraine, fertility issues etc.
I think of reflexology as a way of “fine tuning “ the body helping it cope with whatever comes its way.
I like to have regular treatments myself as part of my overall self care to maintain my health and keep me feeling good
WHAT HAPPENS IN A REFLEXOLOGY SESSION?
Treatment is mainly applied to the feet, as they tend to be more sensitive than the hands, but both can be worked when appropriate.
It is worth saying that although many people feel embarrassed about their feet, reflexologists are happy to welcome feet of any type, in all their glorious shapes and sizes and to discover the stories they may have to tell about their owners!
Your first session will begin with a general chat - we will discuss your health (past and present), get a sense of what you hope to gain from your treatment and begin to work out an individual treatment plan to suit you.
The only clothing to remove is shoes and socks, and then you will be made comfortable on a treatment couch or reclining chair.
After giving your feet a gentle clean, off we go!
There will be some massaging of feet, which is generally incredibly relaxing (even those with ticklish feet tend to agree) and finger and thumb pressure is also used to seek out areas which are imbalanced. These places sometimes feel a bit uncomfortable at first, but can give us interesting feedback about where in your body we may need to turn our attention.
It is common for people to feel sleepy or even drop off during the session - in fact the more you can allow yourself to relax the more effective your treatment may be.
WHAT DOES IT FEEL LIKE?
Although reflexology is more than simple foot massage, some massage techniques are included; you will also feel my thumbs "walking” over your feet, and other pressure being applied in some areas.
Sometimes slight discomfort may be felt in areas of the feet where imbalances are detected, but this is usually passes quickly as balance is restored.
Most people find reflexology nurturing and reassuring and many drop off to sleep during treatment.
DOES IT TICKLE?
Some people worry that reflexology will tickle (as a person with ticklish feet, I can relate to this!)
It is rare for this to be a problem for more than the initial few moments of treatment and should not stop anyone from trying it!
I'M WORRIED ABOUT THE STATE OF MY FEET...
I often hear people say that they embarrassed they are about the state of their feet – please do not be concerned about this!
For reflexologists, everything about your feet is genuinely fascinating, including corns, hard skin and wonky toes!
This is because we are viewing the feet holistically as a reflection of the whole person ,so “imperfections” are actually useful tools for discovering more about how we might be able to help you.
IS IT ONLY THE FEET REFLEXOLOGY WORKS ON?
In some cases, hand reflexology may also be applied – this is also useful for any “homework” that may be recommended for you to try between treatments, as its clearly easier to see what you are doing than working on your own feet.
I'VE HEARD THAT REFLEXOLOGY CAN HELP WITH IBS, HORMONAL IMBALANCES AND MANY OTHER CONDITIONS – IS THIS TRUE?
I have worked with people with a variety of symptoms and conditions and the feedback I receive is often incredibly positive, with clients reporting that they have more energy, experience a reduction in their symptoms and feel generally better.
Everyone responds differently to complementary therapies, so it isn’t possible ( or indeed legal) to say that any specific condition can be improved with reflexology – I always advise people to give it a try ,as the results can sometimes be amazing!
CAN ANYONE HAVE REFLEXOLOGY?
The nurturing nature of reflexology make it suitable for individuals of any age, from babies and children to adults and the elderly. However, there are some situations, such as deep vein thrombosis, which can be a contraindication to reflexology and people with conditions such as diabetes or unstable heart conditions should seek approval from their doctor before having reflexology.