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What is reflexology?
Whilst the art of 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 theory into what is now known as
reflexology. She observed that congestion or
tension in any part of the foot is mirrored in
the corresponding part of the body. Reflexology
is a complementary therapy, which works on the
feet to help heal the whole person not just the
prevailing symptoms.
How can reflexology help me?
Reflexology can be used to help restore and
maintain the body's natural equilibrium. This
gentle therapy encourages the body to work
naturally to restore its own healthy balance.
Reflexology has been shown to be effective for:
Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or
prescribe.
Who can benefit from reflexology?
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may
bring relief from a wide range of acute and
chronic conditions. After you have completed a
course of reflexology treatment for a specific
condition, many people find it beneficial to
continue with regular treatments in order to
maintain health and well-being.
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
recognise reflexology as a well established,
respected and effective therapy.
With ever increasing levels of stress, it is
important people take more responsibility for
their own health care needs. Reflexology helps
us to cope on a physical, mental and emotional
level thereby encouraging us to heal and
maintain health in all areas of our lives.
What happens when I go for treatment?
On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner
will have a preliminary talk with you to
determine your present and past health and
lifestyle.
The reflexologist will then use their hands to
apply pressure to the feet. The application and
the effect of the therapy is unique to each
person.
A professionally trained reflexologist can
detect subtle changes in specific points on the
feet, and by working on these points may affect
the corresponding organ or system of the body.
A treatment session usually lasts for about one
hour. A course of treatment may be recommended
depending on your body's needs.
How will I feel after a reflexology
treatment?
After one or two treatments your body may
respond in a very definite way. Most people note
a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes
people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or
tearful, but this is transitory and is a part of
the healing process.
This is vital information to feed back to the
reflexologist as it shows how your body is
responding to treatment. This will help the
reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan
specific to your needs.
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