What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a safe and natural therapy unlocking the healing powers of your body. Whether you're feeling stressed, burnt out, overwhelmed, suffering with aches and pains, or discombobulated with hormones - reflexology can help. I believe reflexology is one of the best methods for bringing health and harmony to the total person. In a world where everything seems like it needed to be done yesterday, with the bar being raised higher with every new generation and pressures on the modern man and woman, self- care and time out is needed more than ever.
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Reflexology is a gentle, non-invasive therapy activating the healing powers of the body back into its natural balance. It is based on the theory that health is the result of harmony between the mind, body, and spirit. Stresses of any kind whether they are physical, psychological, social or environmental, can upset this balance and cause ‘disease’
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You'll be amazed how reflexology can be the first step in discovering other ways to live a happier and healthier life. After one or two treatments, most people begin feeling an improved sense of wellbeing and experience deep relaxation. You'll be astonished and delighted with how just one treatment can make a difference to your well-being
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Why not watch this short video on 'what is reflexology' put together by the A.O.R - Association of Reflexologists here.
What is the concept?
If you can Imagine that all your organs and systems are mapped out in miniature onto your feet and hands (mini maps of your body.) Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the hands and feet that correspond to all your glands, organs, and systems of your body. By using gentle thumb and finger pressure along with a crafted technique, this method is used to bring the body back to its natural balance.
The history of reflexology
The art of healing the body through the hands and feet dates back 4000-5000 years ago. The earliest evidence of hand and foot massage was discovered in Egypt in the tomb of Ankhmahor at Saqqara. This tomb ages back to approximately 2330BC and is sometimes referred to as the 'physicians tomb' due to all the medical reliefs it contains.
Reflexology is a method to activate the healing powers of the body. It is both old and new. We know that ancient civilisations from China, India, Egypt and even early tribes of North American Indians, all had techniques working with hands and feet to promote good health and wellbeing. Many of these same techniques have been developed into a modern scientific method which we now know as 'Reflexology'.
Reflex = The reflection
Ology = The science
This very old therapy has withstood the test of time, the longevity alone proves this powerful therapy, and its effectiveness – there is more and more research and case studies being undertaken into its efficacy. Reflexology is becoming more widely well known, robust and scientific than ever before.
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Why not try reflexology?
Most of us live our lives with very little time for ourselves. We live in a sea of noise, deadlines, interruptions, worries, responsibilities and distractions. The bar seems to be raised with every generation, with expectations causing pressure and stress leading to imbalances Reflexology can provide the perfect space and time away from the chaos of our modern world and society. This powerful therapy offers time out, a safe quiet island to sit for a while, stop the commotions and distractions, take stock of what really matters, renew ourselves, so we can return to our busy worlds with more energy and enthusiasm. Reflexology can literally be the first step in discovering different ways to live a happier and healthier life – you’ll realise after just a few sessions how good you feel.
​So, what are the Benefits of Reflexology?
By generating deep tranquil relaxation, reflexology can reduce stress and induce deep relaxation. There are many other benefits, they can include:
Improves circulation:
We all know how important it is for blood to flow. By reducing stress and tension, reflexology can allow the miles of cardiovascular vessels to conduct the flow of blood naturally and easily.
Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities:
By deepening relaxation, reflexology can aid all the systems of the body to function more efficiently including those that eliminate waste products.
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Balances the whole system ‘homeostats’:
Thousands of body parts and areas of the body all work hard to promote a healthy body – if one is out of balance, the whole body suffers. Reflexology is a wonderful therapy that can help promote a calm and centred balance within the body.
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Revitalises energy:
Energy is unique to us all, however energy flows constantly, consciously and unconsciously throughout the body and let us not forget the energy of the spirit as this is crucial to our overall wellbeing. Reflexology can revitalise the body and supply it with energy on all levels by relaxing and opening energy pathways.
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Preventative health care:
The daily stressors of life, these have a massive impact on our health, mental health and immune system. This warns us to find time to unwind and relax, because the immune system functions at its best when a person successfully manages the stressful situation of daily life. 'Only when a body is truly balanced can it ward off illness'.
Reflexology seems to help in bolstering the immune system
This means you are likely to catch fewer colds. Studies have shown that children get fewer colds when they receive regular reflexology. It's not just for adults! I will often find a foot or hand in my lap - my kids couldn't live with out it now.
Stimulates creativity and productivity:
We all struggle to work or study when we feel tired or sluggish. Just like exercise, reflexology can restore mental alertness and improve attention span, by reducing tension and calming the mind. We are free to be creative, proactive, and work longer - coming up with our best thoughts and ideas.
Nurtures relationships:
When you feel good, others respond positively. My clients will often walk out feeling like they are walking on air – feeling so good when they arrive back to their homes or workplaces on a high - and in really good moods, This will often change the whole environment 'feeling good is contagious'.