History of Reflexology

Reflexology dates back to Ancient Egypt, India and China, it wasn't until 1913 that Dr William Fitzgerald introduced this therapy to the west as "Zone therapy".

He noted that reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to other areas and organs of the body within the same zone.

In the 1930's Eunice Ingham further developed this zone therapy into what is now known as reflexology.

What is reflexology

Reflexology is a non-invasive gentle treatment that aims to balance all the systems of the body. This in turn enhances the body's own natural healing capabilities.

Specific pressure techniques are applied to the feet where all the body structures and organs are mapped or mirrored.

Reflexology does not claim to cure any condition, but is beneficial in:

• Reduces feelings of stress and tension
• Calms
• Relaxes mind and body
• Assists elimination
• Gives a wonderful sense of wholeness and well being
• Assists the body in achieving and maintaining equilibrium
• Assists circulation

In view of this it is ideally suited in a complementary, holistic, preventative and wellness approach to ones healthcare management

Reflexology is a particularly pleasant means of treatment.

Diseases and Conditions Benefited from Reflexology

Reflexology has been successful in relieving many acute and chronic common conditions. The following are some examples:

• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Backache
• Headaches
• Anxiety
• Migraines
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Constipation
• Irritable bowel syndrome
• Cramp
• High or Low Blood Pressure
• Oedema
• Pre-menstrual Tension
• Recuperation from Illness
• Sciatica
• Sinusitis
• Stress
• Tinnitus

Reflexology is for Everyone Young or Old

Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. While many people use Reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress, at the same time many doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognize Reflexology as a well established, respected and effective therapy. With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important people take more responisbility for their own health care needs. Reflexology helps to cope on a physical, mental and emotional level thereby encouraging us to heal and maintain health in all areas of our lives.

It is not only for people with specific ailments, it is also beneficial to those who have a busy and energetic lifestyle. To maintain equilibrium, it is important for everyone to relax. It is known that 75% of modern day illnesses are due to stress and tension.

What to expect from a Reflexology Treatment

At the first treatment a detailed medical history will be taken. Once the consultation is complete, you will be asked to remove your footwear and sit in a recliner chair. An initial examination of the feet will take place before commencing with the treatment. Specific massaged pressure techniques are then applied to the feet with the thumb and some instances the fingers. All areas on both feet will be massaged. Areas corresponding to parts of the body, which are out of balance, will feel uncomfortable or tender when massaged. The sensitivity of the feet varies from person to person.

The full treatment session will last 45 minutes.

Pre Treatment Advice

Please do not:

• Eat a large stodgy meal before treatment
• Drink alcohol
• Participate in hard exercise
• Rush before a treatment, be in a calm state of mind
• And please ensure your feet are clean

If you follow these simple rules you will find that your reflexology treatment is more beneficial.

After Treatment Advice

• Drink as much water as you can over the next 24 hours to help the body to eliminate waste and toxins
• Take it easy for the rest of the day if possible
• Do not fight any emotions, as they are a normal reaction of the body to treatment
• Do not drink alcohol or use drugs unless prescribed by a doctor
• Try to avoid large stodgy or highly spiced meals

Treatment Effects

Reflexology cannot cause illness but if there are problems, the process of re-balancing will make them more apparent.

After a treatment you may or may not get:

• Feelings of tiredness
• Drowsiness or lethargy
• Feelings of energy
• Feelings of well-being
• Increased urination
• Increased bowel movements
• Increased bodily secretions
• Balancing of menstrual flow
• Reduction of mood swings