Reflexology is a very old and established therapy, thought to have originated in China or Egypt.
Reflexology is a gentle and non- invasive therapy, an holistic therapy based on the principal that there are thousands of nerve endings in the feet that correspond to every organ and structure of the body.
It is therefore a whole body treatment, not just a foot massage!
Reflexology is the practice of stimulating reflexes in the feet that correspond to parts of the body. Using specific hand, finger and thumb techniques, reflexology creates responses in the body that relate to the different reflexes in the feet.
Foot mapping can affect every system in the body, from the toes and their relationship to the head, neck and, sinuses, to the heel for lower back and areas of the pelvis.
Reflexology works in a number of ways. These include:
Relaxation. Stimulation of foot reflexes help to generate a deep relaxation, a response which may lead to better balance within the body , and allow for better accommodation to stress.
Stress Reduction. When we are stressed the body may be more susceptible to illness and disease. Overload of stress can also manifest in aches and pains, digestive problems, for example .Reflexology works on the feet to trigger a reflex action in the body area affected, relaxing tension and reducing possible vascular restrictions
Improved Circulation. Reflexology allows the blood to flow naturally and easily, so reducing sluggishness in circulation.
Nervous System Stimulation. Reflexology stimulates the nervous system by encouraging the smooth flow of neural pathways, interrupting and reducing pain, locally over the foot and also through the nervous system in peripheral nerves in other areas of the body.
Increased Energy Levels. Reflexology revitalises energy throughout the body….which leads to an
Increase of Wellbeing and Vitality.
Improved Immune System. Reflexology also stimulates the lymphatic system, to help clear toxins from the body and stimulates the production of endorphins, helping the immune system and increasing a sense of wellbeing.
There are many conditions that may respond well to a reflexology treatment plan:
Reflexology is also used in the palliative care environment, and often hand reflexology may be used with individuals with compromised health.
Reflexology is also suitable for pre-conception, during pregnancy, for babies and children.
Pre-Pregnancy, Reflexology may assist with fertility and hormone regulation.
During pregnancy, Reflexology may help:
Accredited reflexologists have undertaken diploma training and are affiliated to a professional association.
I am a member of The National Register of Reflexologists (Ireland)
Reflexology session usually takes one hour, sometimes slightly longer for the first session, to include consultation.