What is reflexology?

Whilst the art of reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn’t until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the West as ‘zone therapy’. He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930’s Eunice Ingham further developed this zone theory into what is now known as reflexology. She observed that congestion or tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in the corresponding part of the body.

Reflexology is a complementary therapy, which works on the feet to help heal the whole person not just the prevailing symptoms.

How does it work?

The therapist will use massage and pressure techniques on areas of the foot which correspond to related organs and parts of the body. This will induce deep relaxation and reduce stress in those parts of the body. Once stress is reduced it allows an increase in energy flow which helps to eliminate toxins and aids the healing process.

How can reflexology help me?

Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body’s natural equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexology has been shown to be effective for:

	Back Pain
	Migraine
	Infertility
	Arthritis
	Sleep disorders
	Hormonal imbalances
	Sports injuries
	Digestive disorders
	Stress-related conditions

Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe.

Who can benefit from reflexology?

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. After you have completed a course of reflexology treatment for a specific condition, many people find it beneficial to continue with regular treatments in order to maintain health and well-being.

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 recognise 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?

On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.

The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy is unique to each person.

A professionally trained reflexologist can detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.

A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body’s needs.

How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?

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.

This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.