WHAT IS REFLEXOLOGY?
Reflexology is a non-invasive, complementary health therapy – an ancient practice originating in Egypt, India and China.
Pressure is applied to reflex points on the feet, lower legs, hands, face and ears that are connected to different organs of the body, aiming to bring them back into balance. The process fosters deep relaxation and well-being, helping to reduce stress.
Reflexology works on an individual basis, facilitating the healing of your body’s own potential, and the therapy is tailored specifically to your own specific needs.
Reflexology can be received by anyone, at any age.
In addition, reflexology can be used safely alongside standard healthcare, although you should consult your doctor if you have a complex medical condition. Reflexology should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice.
After the therapy, your body can respond in different ways, but most people feel very relaxed and in good spirits. Occasionally, you can feel tearful or lethargic – this is transitory and part of the healing process.
WHAT TO EXPECT IN YOUR FIRST SESSION
In your first session, you will need to fill in a medical form and I will ask you a few questions about your lifestyle. This information will help me decide how to tailor your treatment.
You don’t need to undress. Just take off your shoes and socks, and lie on a couch. I will start by assessing your feet for open wounds, sores, plantar warts, trauma to the feet, or any fungal infections, as I won’t be able to work on your feet properly, or at all, in some cases!
I will apply pressure to reflex areas of the feet using my thumb and sometimes my fingers. I will work on the reflex areas that are out of balance to help the body to heal. If you are looking for a relaxing reflexology session, I will work both your feet and calves gently.
You will feel pressure, but it won’t be painful. However, if you need a more specific therapy, I will work more deeply on those reflex areas of your feet that are imbalanced. You will probably feel some discomfort and bearable pain when I press on those points. If you have had a big meal, it’s best to wait at least one hour before you have reflexology.
WHAT IS RLD REFLEXOLOGY?
I also offer a special version of Reflexology called RLD. It is an award-winning reflexology technique which focuses on stimulating the lymphatic reflexes on the feet.
The aim is to cause an effect on the lymphatic system in the body. It is a unique sequence that has been researched and developed by Sally Kay, whilst working in Cancer Care. The results appear to support the theory of reflexology.
THE MANZANARES METHOD™
I have also studied the Manzanares Method of Reflexology with Dr Manzanares.
He specialises in family medicine in Barcelona and has integrated reflexology with conventional medicine, based on his research principles and methods. Dr Manzanares advocates a firmer touch during reflexology sessions, and I am happy to employ this technique with clients who prefer it.
PAIN MANAGEMENT
If you suffer from pain, reflexology can sometimes help.
I have studied under Dr Carol Samuel and taken her course entitled “Pain Management, an Introduction to Nerve Reflexology (ReflexMaster)”.
This is an advanced technique of reflexology that may help you with lower back or pelvic pain. Dr Samuel is the first person in the world to gain a PhD in Reflexology and Pain Management.