Therapies > Reflexology
Reflexology
Reflexology is the technique of applying gentle pressure to the reflexes on the feet, in order to create a deep state of calm and relaxation. The reflexes in the feet correspond to each organ and structure in the body, and are linked to those organs by energy channels, often referred to as zones or meridians.
How does it work?
There are over 7000 nerve endings in the feet, which when stimulated increase nerve impulses and circulation and stimulate the body's own healing processes helping the body to return to a natural state of balance and wellbeing.
Areas which appear sensitive during the treatment are worked on to release any blockages and restore the free flow of energy and blood circulation throughout the whole body.
Did you know that 75% of all illnesses are due to stress, Reflexology can help to reduce your stress levels and prevent ill health
The Benefits include:
Encourages the elimination of toxins
Creates a deep state of calm and relaxation
Reduces stress, allowing body systems to function more efficiently
Boosts the immune system, and can be used pre and post operative for this purpose
Improves Circulation and can help to lower blood pressure
Offers relief from general aches and pains
Reflexology is extremely effective, everyone can benefit from the treatment, whether you have a particular condition you would like treatment for or simply want to treat yourself to some well deserved "me time" to unwind and relax
Reflexology can help to relieve:
Headaches
Sinus problems
Asthma
Hayfever
Eczema
Backache and Sciatica
PMS and hormonal imbalances
Period pains
Digestive disorders and IBS
Constipation
Insomnia, Fatigue & ME
Stress disorders and tension
High Blood Pressure
Fluid Retention
Pregnancy related conditions including Morning Sickness, Fluid Retention, Backache and Constipation
The History of Reflexology
 The earliest pictorial evidence of Reflexology dates back to around 2330 BC and was discovered in the Physicians Tomb in Ancient Egypt. The words read: "Don't hurt me," the patient says. The Practitioners reply is, "I shall act so you praise"
The art of reflexology itself dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China , when practitioners believed that pain or illness was caused when there was a blockage disrupting the body's natural flow of energy and creating an imbalance. The Reflexologist used pressure to unblock this energy flow and return the body to a balanced state of health and wellbeing.
The events that lead to Reflexology as we know it today began by a series of discoveries starting with Sir Henry Head , an English Neurologist born in 1861, who proved that a neurological relationship existed between pressure applied to the skin and internal organs. Diseased parts of the body could be identified by other areas of the body that showed sensitivity when pressed. Massaging these areas intensified the healing process.
In 1906 Sir Charles Sherrington showed that a reflex action is the imparting energy to a receptor organ by an external stimulus on the surface of the body. The energy is transmitted as a series of successive nerve impulses to a part of the body such as an organ, gland or muscle. Therefore all organs in the body can be affected by stimulating surface areas of body.
In the early 1990's Dr William Fitzgerald rediscovered zone therapy and divided the body into 10 longitude zones, 5 each side of the body. He experimented with pain relief from pressure applied to areas of the body and the anaesthetic effect it had on other parts far removed from the pressure site.
Dr Joe Shelby Riley and his wife learned Zone therapy from Dr Fitzgerald and took it one stage further by producing detailed diagrams of the feet.
in the 1930's Eunice Ingham, the assistant of Dr Riley invented the method of Reflexology that is practiced today called the Ingham Method. Eunice learnt the simplified zone therapy from Dr Riley and altered it in line with her own findings, concentrating on the feet and producing detailed foot maps. These foot maps are what Reflexology is based upon today.
It was in the early 1960's that Doreen Bayly introduced the technique of Reflexology to the UK.
What to expect from during Treatment
Your first appointment begins with a full consultation to establish your current state of health, medical history and presenting condition. During the treatment most people often feel extremely calm and relaxed and drift off into a light sleep. Sessions end with a discussion of sensitive areas found on the feet and finding out why this could be. Aftercare and advice will also be given.
Is Reflexology painful? No, however areas of sensitivity may be felt where there is an imbalance in the body, a current physical problem, a weak area or a passing state of stress.
How often will I need treatment? A one off session will be beneficial, particularly when stressed, but a course of treatments is generally recommended where there is a specific underlying condition. The frequency of treatment depends very much on each individual, how readily they respond, general health, age and how long standing the condition is.
When should I avoid treatment? Reflexology is not advisable during the first 3 months of pregnancy, if you have a fever, if you have athletes foot or any type infectious condition such as cold or flu. |
