Frequently Asked Questions
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a complementary health therapy involving the application of pressure to specific points on the feet.
Reflexologists use specific thumb, finger, and hand massage techniques to manipulate reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all organs, glands, and parts of your body.
By stimulating these reflexes, the blood and nerve supply is increased to where the body needs it most.
Reflexology is not the same as a foot massage. Nor is it a substitute for conventional medical treatment.
How does reflexology work?
Reflexology aims to bring your body back into balance.
There are thousands of nerve endings in your feet which correspond to and send messages about specific parts of the body to and from your brain.
Through reflexology, any blockages in nerve and/or blood supply can be released, and your circulation is boosted which enables your body to heal itself.
What health conditions does reflexology help with?
Reflexology is particularly beneficial for the relief of stress, tension and anxiety.
It also rebalances hormones, boosts your immune system, improves your sleep, flushes the body of toxins, and generally boosts energy levels.
But it can also do so much more.
My clients have told me they have experienced improvements in these following conditions/aliments:
Arthritis and joint pain
Digestive health
Fertility and pregnancy
Headaches and migraines
Muscle aches and pains
Stress and anxiety
Respiratory health
Menopause
Sleep disorders and insomnia
Can a reflexologist diagnose health conditions?
No. Reflexologists are not medically trained. If you are feeling unwell you should seek advice from a medical expert.
Reflexology treatments can help with certain ailments and conditions once they are diagnosed.
Please note that reflexology is a complementary health therapy. It works alongside conventional medicine and shouldn’t be used on its own as an alternative.
How often should I have reflexology?
The number of treatments you will need depends on your ailment or condition, how long you have had it and what you are hoping to achieve.
If you are focused on a specific health issue, I would recommend that you have sessions two weeks apart or even weekly for a month or two, then monthly as a maintenance programme.
If you are having treatments to promote general relaxation and health, then I would suggest one session a month.
However, the frequency of treatments are entirely up to you and your own personal preference. It might be once per week, once per month or even once per year.
What is it like to have a reflexology session?
At your first appointment I will ask you some health questions to better understand what you might be looking for from reflexology and then tailor your session to your exact needs.
I will begin every treatment with a short health and wellbeing questionnaire. Then you get on my fully adjustable treatment couch, recline back and let your feet do the talking!
I offer a relaxed and comfortable setting allowing you to unwind and get the most out of your session.
Is reflexology essentially just a foot massage?
A unique thumb or finger walking micromovement technique is used all over the foot.
It is a precise and firm movement that does not hurt or tickle. Pressure can be increased or decreased according to your needs.
It will feel like a foot massage, but the precise movements and flow to the treatment allows for a much more powerful treatment than a simple foot massage.
Do I need to do anything before a reflexology treatment?
It is a good idea not to eat a heavy meal less than an hour before your treatment. Drinking alcohol before attending your appointment is not advised either.
Washing your feet is appreciated - but there’s absolutely no need to get a pedicure, as some people do! Seeing the feet in their natural state is all part of the assessment… feet are fascinating!
Other than that, there is nothing else to do before coming for your treatment.
What should I wear for a reflexology treatment?
Wear comfortable clothing to your reflexology session.
You will be lying on a reclining couch so you will want to feel relaxed.
My studio has heating for the winter and all of the doors and windows can be opened in the summer months.
Depending on the season, I can provide blankets or thin sheets to cover you if you prefer.
During the reflexology session, only your feet and ankles will be exposed.