Reflexology
Reflexology is a non-invasive, complimentary therapy which has been developed from an ancient healing technique. It is a treatment which is primarily carried out on the feet and works by stimulating reflex points that correspond to other parts of the body, encouraging natural healing to take place.
Reflexology is a deeply relaxing treatment and encourages your body to breakdown imbalances which may be hindering the natural healing process.
The massage aspect of the treatment alone will encourage your own natural, calming hormones to be released which may help to de-stress your mind and body, encouraging all body systems to relax and function in a better way.
reduce stress
detoxify the body
improve circulation
promote relaxation
reduce pain
encourage healing
reduce anxiety
rebalance hormones
help sleep disorders
ease migranes/headaches
Fertility and Maternity Reflexology have also shown to have positive results and Al has completed training in both of these specialist subjects to allow her to work safely with clients within these fields.
A Brief History of Reflexology
It is thought that reflexology has ancient roots in China, Japan, Russia, India and Egypt. Ancient texts and illustrations indicate that this form of healing may have been used to promote good health several thousands of years ago.
In 1771, the word “reflex” was first used in relation to motor reactions and it has been since then, with many research projects being undertaken by various doctors and psychologists, that the treatment has evolved.
In 1893, an English neurologist, Sir Henry Head proved that that there is a connection between the skin and the internal organs. He then discovered the healing effect that occurred internally when pressure was applied to specific points on the skin.
In the early part of the twentieth century, Dr William Fitzgerald developed what is now known as “zone therapy”. He demonstrated that by putting pressure on one part of the foot, a different part of the body could be anesthetized. Although there is no evidence that Dr Fitzgerald ever documented the zones, this theory was used within the medical world with some success for pain relief and analgesia.
Eunice Ingham is another person whose research was pivotal to the development of the therapy which has brought it to where we are today. Her research led her to develop the map of the body onto the feet and leading to the writing of her book, Stories The Feet Can Tell. Eunice’s maps are still used as a base and reference point in some of today’s teachings.
Hand, Ear and Facial reflexology have also since been developed and research is continuing constantly to enhance this wonderful therapy further.
What to expect at a treatment
An initial treatment would involve a consultation to discuss the reasons for your visit and a short medical questionnaire to be filled in. Once completed, we will discuss which treatment would be best suited to you.
Every treatment is designed to be a relaxing experience. With this in mind, once you are comfortable on either the massage couch or the recliner chair, you will be asked to close your eyes and relax. Using natural product based body butter, you will have a relaxing massage on both of the feet to stimulate your circulation and to warm your feet.
Following this will be the reflexology routine that we have decided suits you. Some points will be worked on both feet at the same time and others will be worked separately. Some areas on the feet you will be more aware of than others but it will all feel very relaxing and hopefully you will be able to drift away whilst listening to some soothing music.
As your treatment finishes, at your own pace, you will be offered a glass of water and we will go through any areas that have shown to be out of balance and, should you wish to, a potential treatment plan will be worked out.
