Reflexology

Reflexology is a natural, holistic therapy, which is carried out on the feet or hands. Reflexology is used to promote a feeling of well being and is suitable for people of all ages.

Reflexology is based on the idea that the feet and hands are 'mini maps' of the body and that there are points on the feet and hands, which relate to the vital organs, glands or structures of the body.

For example, the big toe represents the head and the base of the big toe is the point for the neck.

When the feet are worked on during a treatment, the body will start to function more efficiently and effectively and the person having the treatment will feel more physically and mentally relaxed.

Who Can Reflexology Help?

Reflexology is suitable for men and women of all ages as well as children and babies. It is as effective on a young baby as it is on an elderly person; the only difference is the length of the treatment and the pressure used.

Our Reflexologists have treated clients who are going through all sorts of life events; bereavements, strains of raising a family, work/life balance related stress as well as those who just want to feel a bit more energised.

Please note that reflexology is also for the fit and healthy! You don't need to have a health concern to come along for a reflexology treatment.

Regular sessions can be used as part of your healthy living regime, alongside; exercise, eating healthily, drinking plenty of water and relaxing.

Reflexology can proactively help maintain your good health, help you relax, and help keep colds or 'bugs' at bay.

What are the benefits Of Reflexology?

Reflexology is beneficial for people who are fit and well and those who aren’t feeling so good. If you are generally fit and healthy, reflexology can be added into the mix alongside eating well, exercising, having a good work life balance, to help keep you healthy and well. Reflexology is beneficial for anyone who is feeling stressed and anxious as the treatment is both physically and mentally relaxing. Reflexology is suitable for all ages, from babies to the elderly.

Who should not do reflexology?

People with severe cases of cellulitis on their legs, contagious diseases or DVT.

Prior to a treatment taking place a consultation takes places to assess the client and their general health.

What does it mean if a reflexology point hurts?

It means that there is a build up of lactic and uric acid in the area on the foot, and the area of the foot where you feel discomfort corresponds to a specific part of the body. For example, the area at the base of the back of the big toe, is the point for the neck. By massaging or working on this area, the tenderness or soreness will reduce or disappear.

How often should you go for reflexology?

It depends on how you are when you come in for your first treatment and why you are coming in for a treatment.

For example, if you are feeling very stressed and are having trouble sleeping, it would be advisable to come in for a weekly treatment for up to 3 weeks and then move the sessions on to fortnightly/every three weeks and then monthly/ six weeks. A treatment plan is reviewed frequently with the client and will reflect how the client is responding to the treatment. If however, a client comes in for reflexology to help with general well being, it would be normal to treat the person once every 4-6 weeks.

What should I avoid after reflexology?

It would be advisable to avoid doing too much! The best idea is to go home after a treatment and relax. If you can’t do this, try and simplify your day as much as possible and if you are going to work afterwards, leave on time.

What should I wear for a Reflexology appointment?

Most clothing is suitable but we would recommend wearing trousers, which can be rolled up at the bottom, leggings or a dress/skirt. Ideally, wear clothing you feel comfortable in.

Where do I have the Reflexology treatment?

The Reflexology takes place on a specially designed couch for Reflexology/Massage treatments. The client can lie flat on their back or with their head elevated; it is entirely up to the client how they position themselves. The most important factor is that the client feels comfortable. Pregnant clients tend to sit more upright due to their ‘bump’.

Do I remain fully clothed during a Reflexology appointment?

Almost. Only socks, shoes and tights need to be removed.

Will the Reflexology treatment hurt?

The treatment should feel relaxing and therapeutic but there may be areas on the feet which feel sore or a bit gritty, but this is nothing to worry about. The sensation is similar to how you may feel when having a massage and the masseuse doing the massage comes across a ‘knot’ in your shoulder area and then works on it/massages it to help release it. A reflexologist works in a similar way.

What information will you need from me for a Reflexology appointment?

Your Reflexologist will ask all new clients to fill in a medical history/consultation form. This is to find out if a client has any medical conditions and to understand more about their lifestyle.

If I am pregnant, can I still have Reflexology?

First of all, congratulations! Your Reflexologist will normally suggest a client waits until they are 12 weeks pregnant before having reflexology; Your Reflexologist will then offer treatments from 12 weeks right up until labour starts. Reflexology is very beneficial throughout pregnancy and will help a pregnant client feel mentally and physically relaxed which in turn will help them prepare for labour and ‘charge up batteries’ for after the birth. The exception to the 12 week rule is if the client has been regularly having reflexology prior to getting pregnant e.g. If they have come in for help getting pregnant previously or, if the client is fit and healthy and is used to having reflexology treatments.

Does Reflexology feel ticklish?

No, it shouldn’t. This is because the touch used during the treatment is firm, not light. A light touch is usually associated with tickling. If the reflexology does feel ticklish, it usually only lasts for the first few minutes. Claire has been working as a reflexologist for 16 years and has only once not been able to complete a treatment due to the client finding the treatment ticklish.

How long is the Reflexology treatment?

The session lasts for 1 hour, which usually involves approximately 40-45 minutes of hands on treatment.

How will I feel after the Reflexology treatment?

Overall, you should feel mentally relaxed, as if have ‘gone down a gear’. People quite often comment that their thinking is clearer and things that may have bothered them are not so trouble some and that they feel calmer. Physically, it’s common for your arms and legs to feel heavy; this is a good sign. People often sleep better after a treatment.

Can you diagnose what is wrong with me with Reflexology?

No, Reflexologists do not diagnose or cure people. If you have pressing, urgent health issues, we suggest you discuss them with your GP.

Do you belong to a registered Reflexology body?

Our Reflexologist is a member of the Association of Reflexologists (MAR)