What is Reflexology ?
Reflexology is a wonderfully soothing and relaxing therapy. It’s guiding principle is that energy imbalances in the body cause disharmony and disease.
The hands and feet provide mirror images of the body. I use different massage and pressure point techniques on the feet (or hands) to detect imbalances in a client’s energy. I then work out the imbalances to bring about “homeostasis” – a state of balance - thereby helping to restore harmony and health.
Origins of Reflexology
Reflexology evolved from the ancient technique of acupressure. There is evidence that various ancient cultures used a form of acupressure on the feet. An Egyptian tomb drawing dating back to 2330BC depicts two people being treated by foot and hand massage. The origins of present day reflexology date back to the early twentieth century when an American doctor, William Fitzgerald, developed “Zone Therapy”.
Reflexology further evolved into the sophisticated healing system it is today thanks to the pioneering work of American physiotherapist, Eunice Ingham.
Vertical Reflexology
If you are a wheelchair user or find reclining on a couch uncomfortable, you can still receive a Reflexology treatment. I am trained in Vertical Reflex Therapy (VRT), also know as Vertical Reflexology. This means that I work the top of the feet to access reflexes. When a client is in a weight-bearing (standing) or semi-weight bearing (seated) position the body's response to reflexology is accelerated as a more direct and intense link to the reflexes and the body parts that they represent is created. VRT can also be useful if you don't have mobility issues. Just 5 minutes of VRT before a classical treatment (where the client is reclining on a couch) seems to prime the body, making it more receptive to reflexology. If your feet are painful or inaccessible, I also offer hand reflexology.
Hot Stone Reflexology
I also offer Hot Stone Reflexology. This incorporates the use of basalt stones into the treatment. The effects of heat on the body are well documented, from improving circulation and reducing muscle tension, to promoting deep relaxation. The heat from the stones penetrates to a deeper level than is possible with traditional reflexology, this brings about physiological changes and influences the body's internal energy flow (Chi).
Reflexology for Menopause
I am trained in Reflexology for Menopause. Everyone's experience of menopause differs. I can tailor a treatment to help support your particular symptoms. Research backs up the beneficial effect of Reflexology on menopausal symptoms - see the references below. Feel free to contact me if you would like to discuss this further.
References
Gozuyesil, E., & Baser, M. (2016). The effect of foot reflexology applied to women aged between 40 and 60 on vasomotor complaints and quality of life. Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice, 24, 78–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctcp.2016.05.011
Mahdavipour, F., Rahemi, Z., Sadat, Z., & Ajorpaz, N. M. (2019). The effects of foot reflexology on depression during menopause: A randomized controlled clinical trial. Complementary therapies in medicine, 47, 102195. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ctim.2019.102195
