
what should I expect during a session of reflexology?
Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive holistic therapy, which is said to have originated from ancient Egypt and China amongst other places, it reached Britain and America in the early 1900’s. It is based on the discovery that certain points on the feet and hands correspond to organs, systems and structures within the body. This relationship is called a reflex – the stimulation of one point brings about a response in another area.
Reflexology should not be confused or compared to having a foot massage, it is a specific pressure technique which works on precise reflex points on the feet, and it requires the practitioner to have a thorough knowledge of the human body – its physiology, anatomy and pathology.
The soles of your feet contain over 7,000 nerve endings, each of these nerves are connected to different parts and systems of your body. By stimulating specific reflexes it can illicit a natural healing response in the corresponding system or organ.
Reflexology induces a state of deep relaxation
Reflexology stimulates the nerve supply
Reflexology is a natural pain killer
Reflexology is preventative healthcare
Reflexology improves the flow of blood and lymph
Reflexology enhances general well-being

Reflexology can also be of great comfort in a palliative care setting. Increasingly, hospitals, hospices and cancer centres are offering reflexology to patients to help promote relaxation and an overall sense of well being. Reflexology can help to support the immune system and can relieve some of the side effects of any treatment you are undergoing. it can also help to ease any stress and anxiety, pain, discomfort or fatigue.
Reflexology can also be of great benefit to those on the autism spectrum - especially children, it has been shown to help improve concentration span, and self –confidence which can then have a positive impact on school work. It is also an excellent way of developing a child's sense of 'self', and they also gain great benefit from the one on one attention they receive.
There are certain circumstances were Reflexology may not be suitable – these are known as contra-indications, your therapist will discuss this with you during your consultation.
Your first session will begin with a detailed consultation. You will then be asked to remove your shoes and socks to lie back and relax. Your therapist will gently cleanse your feet, and then briefly examine them, for factors such as skin tone, texture, colour; etc can all be indicative of imbalance. The treatment will then begin as your therapist, using specific pressure techniques on your feet, will detect any imbalances and areas of congestion.
During the session you are encouraged to talk about any feelings that arise or thoughts that you are experiencing with the confidence that you are in a safe and supportive environment with a caring and sensitive professional. Giving emotions an outlet is incredibly therapeutic - the release of emotions allows blocked energy to flow again, and therefore the body is able to heal itself. You could also choose not to talk, deciding instead to drift away whilst listening to soothing music, and you can even fall asleep. The choice is ultimately yours, you are in charge of your own healing and you will know instinctively what is needed to facilitate it.
To book a session using the on-line form click here, or you can call us for a chat on 07845 588780.
