![]() What Is Foot Reflexology?
Foot Reflexology is about far more than just
foot massage. Foot reflexology is a method of both diagnosis and
treatment which has been used throughout the world for thousands of
years.
The foot is viewed as a 'map', where different
parts of the foot correspond to all the organs and systems in the body.
By stimulating certain points on the foot, you are in turn adjusting the
related organs in the body.
Specialised foot massage techniques are used on
particular points to rebalance and re-harmonise energy or Qi flow throughout
the body. Stagnated or blocked energy flow causes pain so restoring this
allows the body to return to its natural state of self healing. How does Reflexology work?
Reflex points in the feet are interconnected
with the rest of your body through the central nervous system. Pressure
on certain points sends signals that balance the nervous system, induce
circulation, and release chemicals, like endorphins, opening up energy flow or
Qi.
This "pressure therapy" is performed by massaging, squeezing, or
pushing parts of the foot, hand, or ear. Specific techniques using the thumb,
fingers, and hands are utilized.
Reflexology treats the whole person: mind, body
and spirit as all these parts are intrinsically interconnected.
Reflexology treatment helps to mobilise your own
inner energy to wherever it is needed within your body to protect against
imbalance. What does Reflexology feel like?
Foot reflexology is a non-invasive method of
reducing pain and fatigue while also being incredibly relaxing.
If you have any tenderness or sensitivity in a
particular part of your foot, our practitioners will make note of this as it
indicates that more work is needed in that area.
Steadily, as we work on that area, the
sensitivity will lessen and the corresponding part of your body should also
feel better. So, for example, if you have a tender spot on your big toe which
corresponds to your neck, our practitioners will apply pressure to this area to
ease the tension in your neck. How many treatments will I need?
Treatment plans are based on each patient's
individual needs, depth and duration of disease. Our experienced practitioners
will give you a prognosis and treatment plan at your first visit. Our goal is
to help you feel better as soon as possible. What should I expect during a Foot Reflexology
Session
In general, a foot
reflexology sitting lasts between 45 and 60 minutes. It often begins with a
lifestyle and health consultation. You only need to remove socks and shoes and
sit in a chair or sometimes lay on a table. Pressure is applied
"dry," without the use of oils, creams, or lotions. In one session
all parts of both feet are usually worked.
At the end of a session, most
patients feel relaxed and stress free.
[see What to Expect for more detail] What are the common conditions Foot Reflexology
is used for?
Anyone can benefit
from foot reflexology; however, some people are great candidates for the
benefits offered. Those people who may particularly gain results from
reflexology often have:
~ High stress levels or stress related
conditions
~ Tension headaches
~ Digestive disorders
~ Arthritis
~ Insomnia
~
Hormonal imbalances
~ Sports injuries
~ PMS
~ Back pain What are thebenefits to Foot Reflexology?
There are countless
advantages of foot reflexology. After a session of reflexology, sore, tired,
and aching feet are relaxed and revived. The benefits only begin there. Other
results from foot reflexology are:
~ Stress reduction
~ Relaxation
~ Improved
circulation
~ Reduction in pain
~ Assistance in weight loss
~ Improved health
of all organs
~ Overall improved well being
~ Enhanced sleep patterns
You may find reflexology useful in breaking
habits or where no illness is apparent but something doesn't feel right within
yourself. Foot reflexology is a powerful detoxification method.
Benefits
of foot reflexology are vast and vary greatly between patients. Using a
qualified practitioner and consistent treatments are vital to optimize the
restorative benefits of foot reflexology. What are the side
effects of foot reflexology?
As
reflexology is not intrusive, there are very few side effects to treatment.
Most people feel very relaxed or sleepy, though some are highly alert and
refreshed. However, normally both types are fully refreshed the next day. A
common side effect is an increased visits to the toilet, as the body is
flushing out toxins.
|