You might not know this but reflexology is about so much more than just your feet! It’s one of my most popular forms of therapy and I often use it in conjunction with other treatments for maximum long-term impact. The below tells you everything you need to know about reflexology and whether it could be the right path for you.
Who Can Have Reflexology?
Anyone! Reflexology is suitable for everyone. It is a safe, non-invasive massage treatment that focuses on the feet and hands that has been developed to aid deep relaxation, unblock energy pathways (aka meridians) and increase blood flow and energy flow to specific and problematic areas of the body. It can be highly beneficial in pregnancy, extremely helpful in assisting the terminally ill and ideal for combating work related stress.
What can I expect at my first appointment?
Firstly, I will answer any questions you have and listen to your reasons for coming to see me. I will ask you a number of questions, which will cover your medical history, your lifestyle and your general health and well-being that will help me better understand your specific needs. Then, you will lay fully clothed on the treatment couch (you should wear comfortable clothes and I will only ask you to remove your shoes and socks). If you find it difficult to lie flat, you can lie propped up on my treatment couch or sit in a reflexology chair, known as a lafuma. After some initial relaxation, I will then use my thumb and forefinger to apply pressure to specific areas of your feet (reflexes) and/or your hands. At the end of your session, we can discuss your experience and I can make any recommendations for further treatment.
How many treatments should I have to feel any benefit?
You will be able to feel the benefit of reflexology after just one treatment, though the benefits are cumulative. However, depending on your own needs I usually recommend a course of treatments in order to kick-start the body into healing. As reflexology works on an energetic level, people often find their bodies respond better to the treatment at each subsequent session.
Do you Offer Reflexology in my Own Home?
I offer ‘at-home’ reflexology visits within a 10-mile radius of St Albans. Many of my clients enjoy the benefits of treatment in their own home and by coming to your house, I can ensure that you keep feeling relaxed long after your treatment. My mobile service is ideal if you’re working in ‘the big smoke’, if you need in-hospital or at-home holistic palliative care, or if you’re elderly or infirm. I can treat you at your workplace or in the comfort of your own home and I am also able to see you at your convenience, rather than mine.
How Long Does the Treatment Last?
The first appointment includes an initial consultation and is approximately 1.5 hours. Subsequent appointments last roughly one hour.
Does Reflexology Hurt?
No, reflexology is non-intrusive and is not painful because the main intention is relaxation. However, on occasion, a client may experience some mild discomfort during the treatment as I work on different areas of the foot. You will find that these areas often correspond to a problem you have been experiencing in another part of your body. Any discomfort you may feel is temporary and will only last for a few seconds. If you feel that the pressure being applied is too much all you need to do is say and it will be adjusted accordingly.
How Will I Feel After the Reflexology Treatment?
Everybody responds differently so you may feel tired and sleepy or energised and refreshed. Some experience freedom from long-term aches and pains, or emotional issues like anxiety. People often experience increased energy, heightened awareness, and greater productivity, which can last for days. It is advised that you drink plenty of water for a period of 24 hours after your treatment to help rid the body of toxins that have been released during the treatment. Reflexology works on both the physical body and also on emotional and mental levels. A reaction is a positive sign that the therapy is working and is a natural outcome of the treatment. After the treatment some people have what is known as a healing reaction that comes in various forms such as thirst, emotion, mild tiredness etc. If you experience any of these reactions, they are part of the healing process and they will not normally last more than 24 hours.
Is Reflexology Safe During Pregnancy?
Reflexology can have many benefits during pregnancy and is generally considered safe in pregnancy, provided all is well with your pregnancy and your reflexologist knows that you’re pregnant.
Can Reflexology Induce Labour?
Reflexology is not a miracle treatment and if your baby is not ready to come out then Reflexology isn’t going to initiate that process in one treatment. However, if baby is ready to come then by working on the areas that stimulate hormones, the uterus/ovaries as well as spinal nerve roots we can help prepare and support the body for what is to come. Reflexology can be very soothing and helps you to relax – which is only going to aid you in the labour process. Reflexology often works better when received regularly throughout a pregnancy and studies have shown that many of these women often go on to have easier and smoother labours.
Does Reflexology Treat or Cure Conditions?
Reflexology is a natural non-invasive complementary therapy. It works very well alongside orthodox or conventional medicine and does not replace it. Although it cannot cure, treatment may help alleviate the symptoms of an illness/disease. As a reflexologist, I treat the whole person (holistic approach) by stimulating the nerve endings on the soles of the feet or the palms of the hands. A reflexology treatment aims at the client reaching a holistic balance on his/her health.
Please note that reflexology is unsuitable if you have the following: Deep vein thrombosis, cellulitis, an unstable pregnancy (especially in the first trimester or history thereof), a fever or infectious disease, just eaten a heavy meal, under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you are unsure about your suitability to having a reflexology treatment, please check with your GP.
How do I Know you are Qualified to Practise Reflexology?
I am a registered member of the Association of Reflexologists, an organisation that holds a list of qualified reflexology practitioners that must abide by a code of conduct and commit to continuing development. I am fully insured to practice and hold my Reflexology diploma and continued professional development (CPD) certificates of qualifications, professional membership and insurance.
Can I Claim Back the Cost of Treatment Through my Healthcare Provider?
What Happens if my Feet are Ticklish?
If you do have ticklish feet, you really don’t have to worry. Every person I know who has ticklish feet quickly discovers that reflexology has a much more therapeutic feel and relax into their treatment very quickly. That’s because, the pressure I apply to your feet is firm and systematic, so your tootsies are definitely not tickled! If we find an area of the feet that’s too giggly to treat, then hand reflexology can be used instead!
What happens if I have Athlete’s Foot or a verruca?
Small areas can be covered up with a plaster, or I can wear latex free gloves. Alternatively, hand reflexology can be given.
I hold a full Level 3 Diploma from the London School of Reflexology in Regent’s Park University under the tuition of Louise Keet – described by the Mail on Sunday as “Britain’s leading Reflexology practitioner”. I’ve also completed specialist training to Diploma level in Fertility, Pregnancy and Post-natal Reflexology with Louise Keet at the London School of Reflexology.
I am committed to maintaining the highest clinical and professional standards in my practice and undertake regular professional development as part of this drive for excellence.
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