Reflexology
Additional Information
Reflexology is a natural, safe, gentle non-invasive holistic therapy and it is suitable for all ages. It is based on the scientific belief and principle that all the organs and structures of the body are reflected, in a mirror image, on the feet (and indeed hands, face and ears). This miniature map can be broken down into specific reflex points – each representing the organs of the body – and can be used as channels for healing.
Using these reflex points, the reflexologist applies gentle pressure to each specific reflex, thus releasing any blockages, easing restrictions, and restoring energy flow and balance.
By tuning the body through the feet, reflexology can help to relieve the pressures and stress of modern life and helps restore inner harmony and peace. This has a positive and healthy effect on our whole body, mind and soul and overall well-being.
Reflexology can help with a range of ailments and dis-eases, but you do not have to be ill to benefit. Reflexology works in harmony with your body and may even prevent many conditions so there is no need to wait until you feel something is wrong to book your appointments. In fact, your treatments should be part of your regular health care routine and lifestyle.
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Browse our list of reflexology services and book online. Not sure what is best for you? Get in touch to discuss your needs.
A Brief History of Reflexology
Therapeutic foot massage has been around for centuries in the ancient civilizations of China, Africa, India, Egypt and the Native Indians. One of my favourite quotes are on the tomb of an Egyptian physician with the client saying "Do not hurt me" and the response from practitioner “I work for your pleasure”
At the beginning of the 20th century, an American, Dr William Fitzgerald, an ear, nose and throat surgeon, discovered that pressure on the feet produced pain relief in distant parts of the body and he could perform an ENT operation without giving the patient any anaesthetic or painkiller. He developed a system called “zone therapy” where the body is divided into 10 equal paths which run vertically down the body. He believed each path has a flow of energy that is linked to the other areas of the body.
But it wasn’t until the 1930s when Eunice Ingham and Elizabeth Riley carried the idea of zone therapy further by mapping the entire body onto the feet maintaining that all parts of the body could be treated individually by applying pressure on a specific reflex point on the foot and thus modern reflexology was born.
Benefits and Positive Results of Reflexology
The benefits of reflexology are numerous. Over time it can lead to better functioning of the circulatory system as blood flow is improved, especially to the muscular system, resulting in greater loss of tension and creating a state of deep relaxation. It is extremely warming and exhilarating, as it both calms and stimulates the nervous system. In fact, reflexology stimulates over 7 000 nerve endings in each foot and in doing so invigorates the energy flows, maintaining a happy balance and revitalising our bodies. This relieves stress and tension which, it is estimated, contributes to over 75% of all illness and dis-ease.
Reflexology also helps the eliminatory systems to work more efficiently, helping the body rid itself of excess waste, toxins and fluids. By stimulating the pituitary and adrenal glands, powerful natural anti-inflammatory chemicals can be released which helps lesson inflammation, pain, heat and redness, making it excellent for treating injury, swelling, lymph drainage and detox.
Some see reflexology as a beautifying treatment, as with improved circulation, all cells in the body can receive a fresh supply of oxygen and nutrients. Waste is transported more efficiently through the eliminatory organs (intestines, lungs, kidneys, liver, lymph), which means less toxins are excreted through the skin. Reflexology can have and extraordinary effect on the secretions of the body, helping the skin to remain supple, well moisturised, and healthy.
Reflexology, whilst healing, re-balancing and extremely relaxing, can also invigorate and rejuvenate. It can help treat the symptoms of many specific conditions, including the following:
- Insomnia/sleep disorders
- Stress and tension (and their related dis-eases)
- Anxiety and depression
- Sinusitis
- Poor circulation
- Hormonal conditions (PMT, Menopause, fertility, pregnancy, migraine, skin conditions etc)
- Asthma (& other respiratory conditions)
- Back and neck pain
- Sciatica
- Irritable bowel syndrome/digestive disorders
- Fibromyalgia
- Migraines/headaches
- Arthritis
- Pain management
- Comfort for end of life journey
- …….and many more….