What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a type of massage which is based on a theory that there are certain points on the feet and hands that are connected energetically to specific organs and body parts.
When a reflexologist applies pressure to these areas, he may remove energy blockages and offer a range of health benefits.
You should consider a reflexology treatment if you’re experiencing:
- Tension headaches and migraines
- Stress
- Insomnia
- Hormonal imbalances
- Digestive disorders
- Arthritis
- PMS
- Back pain
- Multiple sclerosis
- Sports injuries
- Sinus issues
But the benefits of reflexology are not just physical. This treatment can also improve your mental and emotional state. Are you ready to feel deeply relaxed?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is reflexology safe to try?
Reflexology is safe, noninvasive and comfortable to receive. However, talk to your doctor first if you have circulatory problems in the feet, gout, foot ulcers, blood clots, fungal infections, epilepsy, thyroid problems or open wounds on your hands or feet. This treatment may also not be suitable if you have diabetes, kidney stones or certain types of cancer.
Will reflexology hurt?
No, it shouldn’t hurt. You may feel some discomfort but your therapist will always be consistent with communication. After asking you how are you feeling, he/she will come off of the pressure.
As your condition improves so will the soreness. Pain should always be brief and kept at bearable levels. Your reflexologist may also suggest deep breathing techniques to reduce the uncomfortable sensation.
What information will you need from me?
A reflexologist will ask you about your lifestyle, medical history, and current health. Your information will always be kept confidential.
I have ticklish feet, can I still have reflexology?
Yes, you can. If we find that an area of the feet is too tickly, we can switch to using hand reflexology. Your reflexologist will adjust his/her touch to make the treatment more comfortable. You might need more pressure in order to alleviate the ticklish feeling but there are also several relaxation techniques you can try during the treatment. Your therapist will make sure you feel comfortable.
I have a bunion – can I still have treatment?
This shouldn’t prevent you from having treatment. Nor should corns or calluses on your feet. If a part of your foot is inaccessible, the reflexologist will treat your hand instead.
What is the difference between Massage Therapy and Reflexology?
While there are some similarities with massage and reflexology, they are two different modalities. While massage therapy works through the musculoskeletal system, Reflexology works through the central nervous system. Also, reflexology works through the stimulation of the nerve reflexes on the feet, ankles, hands, ears or your face but massage targets the entire muscle groups.
The reflexology goal is to improve the function of the human organs, while massage is designed to relieve tension through the muscles.
What will the Reflexology session feel like?
This type of session starts with gentle strokes that help you relax. As you’re becoming more and more relaxed, thumb & finger pressure will gradually increase in order to relax specific reflex areas.
Your therapist might use a light oil to avoid friction. You may experience a feeling of deep relaxation, twitching, and warmth in the area of the body being worked on.
How frequently should I have a reflexology treatment?
Your body needs time to normalize between treatments which mean that you should probably visit your reflexologist once a week. We are all different and the number of treatments depends on the condition that you have, your age and general health state but you should probably wait about a week between therapies to avoid overloading the body.
If you are having treatments purely for relaxation purposes, you can be booked whenever you feel like it.
Can I have a reflexology treatment while pregnant?
Make sure to ask your doctor first and tell your reflexologist before your session. Some pressure points may induce contraction. Reflexology prepares your body for labor by balancing the body’s systems. It’s mostly safe, but some conditions are unsuitable: placenta praevia, bleeding, continuous vomiting, toxemia, and DVT (deep vein thrombosis).