Reflexology

Reflexology works on the principle that the whole body is reflected in microcosm in the feet, and also hands and ears. It is an holistic therapy which treats the whole body, encompassing healing of mind, body, and spirit.

A Reflexologist treats the client by working reflex points on the feet that correspond to all the organs, muscles, glands and other systems of the body. Reflexes that are sensitive or indicate ‘disorder’ are treated with a variety of gentle strokes and the application of pressure using thumbs and fingers, calming or stimulating according to the needs of the body. Benefits include:

* Noticeable physical and emotional improvements
* Increased self esteem and confidence
* An ability to stay motivated
* An improvement in concentration

How does it work?

Energy channels or pathways traverse the human body linking organs and body parts. Reflexology aims to balance and harmonise the body by stimulating its own natural healing process, clearing blockages, re-establishing and revitalising energy flows and self-balancing mechanisms. In this way it treats the root cause of disease rather than isolating disease and treating it symptomatically.

Although Reflexology is known to have been of benefit to many people for a long time, it is only recently that scientific explanations for these good effects have been developed.

What conditions can it help?

Reflexologists have great success in working with all types of conditions ranging from sciatica, digestive conditions such as heartburn and constipation, alopecia, aching legs, fluid retention, blocked tear ducts, headaches, to insomnia and musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain and frozen shoulder. Reflexology is particularly good for treating conditions of sub-fertility and for supporting women through pregnancy.

What can you expect visiting a Reflexologist?

For a reflexology treatment only shoes and socks or tights are removed. The client lies on the massage table with the lower legs and feet well supported and comfortable. An initial session begins with some background questions about your health and a discussion about what you are wanting from the session, for example:

* to treat a particular condition (e.g. irritable bowel syndrome, infertility)
* as preventive therapy or to provide system support (eg. for stress management, during pregnancy,)
* for relaxation, a sense of well-being, a ‘tone-up’ or simply pampering.

The number of treatments you have will depend on your reason for having reflexology and the results of an assessment at the first session. Reflexology tends to have a cumulative effect so the treatment of particular conditions will usually require an initial commitment of three to six sessions, generally a week apart. Usually sessions are for one hour (although new clients should allow an hour and 15 minutes for the first treatment).

Treatment Time - 1 hour to 1½ hours

Practitioner

Dharshan Naran