My first Reflexology session was over 20 years ago following a recommendation from a family member. I had no particular health issue, it was purely for relaxation. I was looking for a monthly treat to switch off and enjoy some well deserved me time; something I appreciate even more now I am a busy working mum. I was immediately hooked and so began my holistic therapy journey. From regular monthly sessions to training to become a Holistic Therapist and having my own business and working on board luxury cruise liners. Amazing what one session of Reflexology can lead to!
Life has changed dramatically in the past 2 decades. Life is faster, we are constantly plugged into technology and juggling various commitments with never ending to do lists. Unfortunately self-care very often gets over looked and our health and well-being is put to the bottom of the pile which exacerbates the stress cycle.
Next week is Work Reflexology Week (24th – 30th September) and myself and Reflexologists worldwide are celebrating, raising awareness and promoting the health benefits of Reflexology. So let me tell you a little bit about this wonderful therapy and what to expect when you come for a treatment with me.
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology in some form has been practiced around the world for at least 5,000 years. This ancient therapy is based on the discovery that points on your feet and hands relate to different parts of your body. Energy travels along internal pathways from your feet to all these corresponding body parts. However the stresses and strains of daily life cause congestion, inflammation and tension which block the natural flow of energy. This results in disharmony and imbalance which affects the body’s normal functioning and may lead to illness. This gentle and non-invasive holistic therapy encourages your body to rebalance and heal itself.
What happens when I come for a treatment?
Before your first session I will go through a health and lifestyle questionnaire with you to learn more about you and any health issues you may have and to focus on why you have come for a treatment. In some instances you may need to speak to your GP before I can perform a treatment.
You will be asked to remove your shoes and socks and simply lay back and relax on my couch. After cleansing and examining your feet the treatment will commence with a relaxing foot massage. Special pressure techniques are then applied to locate and work on congested areas. This aims to restore balance and well-being.
Will I feel anything?
On the whole you will find the treatment very relaxing. You may feel warmth and some of my clients have spoken of a feeling of a warm sensation shooting up their legs. Some areas of your feet may feel tender when pressure is applied or they may feel “crunchy”. This can indicate an imbalance in the body which I will pay extra attention to.
How will I feel afterwards?
Relaxed!! I have several clients who fall asleep whilst I’m doing the treatment. Some feel relaxed and energised at the same time. The thing about Reflexology and all of the therapies I practise is that everyone can react differently.
After your first treatment you may experience what is known as a “healing crisis” when any presenting symptoms may get worse for a period of time. You could feel tired, suffer with a headache or lethargy and feel emotional or irritable. All of these reactions are part of the healing process as your body releases waste products and rebalances. This will pass within 24 hours and you may in fact not experience this at all. Everybody is different and so reactions to treatments vary.
What are the benefits?
Most of my clients have Reflexology to help them manage their stress levels and for relaxation. Those who have regular treatments have had very good results in dealing with their anxiety and sleep issues. This wonderful therapy can help to:
Relieve stress, anxiety and tension
Encourage deep relaxation
Improve mood and aid sleep
So if you have thought about trying Reflexology but never got round to it then why not give it a go. Sit back, clear your mind and rebalance your body whilst enjoying the benefits of stimulating the body’s natural healing ability!