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Writer's pictureJodie

An Introduction to Reflexology

Updated: Jan 27

The 19th – 25th September is World Reflexology Week and I thought there was no better way to mark this event than with a blog post celebrating all things Reflexology and why it’s such a wonderful therapy!


So, lets start here…


What is Reflexology & how does it work?


Reflexology a gentle, non invasive, touch therapy that involves using thumb and finger pressure on specific points on the feet called 'reflexes'. These reflexes reflect the bodies organs, structures and emotional health. By applying direct pressure, working and stimulating the specific reflex points, it can encourage the body to be returned to homeostasis*, become rebalanced and improve overall wellbeing.


*According to the Oxford Dictionary, homeostasis is ‘the physiological process by which the internal systems of the body are maintained at equilibrium, despite variations in the external conditions’.


Here is an example of a Reflexology foot map:

It is important to note that there are many different versions of foot maps/charts and that the location of some reflexes slightly differ from map to map etc…

According to theory, when a Reflexologist applies pressure to the reflexes on the feet, it sends a calming message to the central nervous system which in turn, signals the body to adjust its tension levels & further relax. By relaxing a person, it allows us to adjust our tension levels, help the body cope with stress and improve the circulation of both the blood and lymph.


Another theory suggests that in Chinese medicine, energy (or qi) flows through the body but it can become blocked by stress or illness, and by targeting specific pressure points on the feet reflexology can help to break down these blockages and restore the flow of energy in the body.


Reflexology has been shown to:​


· Improve mood and promote wellbeing

· Help eliminate stress/tension and reduce anxiety

· Improve sleep patterns

· Encourage the release of toxins held in the organs

· Reduce congestion and stagnation so returning the body back to a more natural state/rhythm


Plus many more....


Basically – Reflexology encourages the body to heal itself!


Before, During & After a Reflexology Treatment


Prior to your appointment I will ask you to complete a detailed consultation form so I can get to know you and find out if there are any contraindications to the treatment. This also gives me time to prepare and adapt the treatment to your specific requirements. Anything that is discussed between us before, during or after a treatment remains completely confidential.


A normal Reflexology treatment with myself lasts around 60 minutes and I make sure you are comfortable and cosy with extra pillows and throws should you need them. I also offer a complimentary SPACEMASK with every 60 minute Reflexology treatment.


SPACEMASK – INTERSELLER RELAXATION


If you haven’t heard of SPACEMASKS – they are heated eye masks and [the heating process works by a thin layer of iron filings entwining with the oxygen molecules in the air. They are totally safe and the ever so relaxing jasmine is in a low concentration so you can enjoy its fragrance without irritating the skin] – taken from the https://spacemasks.com website.


Reactions after a Reflexology treatment are common but not everyone necessarily experiences these. They can include:


· Increased urination

· Changes in bowel movements

· Tiredness, fatigue or sleepiness

· Emotional releases

· A healing crisis


A Healing Crisis

A healing crisis is quite a common reaction after a Reflexology treatment – especially if it’s your first session and your body is out of balance. This means that an old physical or emotional symptom may be bought to the surface before the body can improve.


All in all – you are most likely to feel wonderful after a treatment!


My journey with Reflexology


I first experienced a Reflexology treatment around 10 years ago & fell in love with it straight away. Since that day, I have been hooked, and it is my go to treatment when I need to feel grounded & when I feel like my reset button needs pushing. Over the past couple of years (bar lockdowns!), I have been so much more consistent & aim have a Reflexology session at least once every 4-6 weeks. My mind, body and soul thanks me for it!!


I always knew I wanted to add this amazing therapy to my treatment list. I knew first-hand how much it could change people’s lives, so I was so excited when I booked onto a Reflexology course. I did my training with Elemi Training School, and I had the most wonderful teacher – Karen – who is an amazing lady with a fountain of knowledge on all things Reflexology and beyond. As all qualified Reflexologists (and those in the midst of their training) will know – learning this therapy takes a lot of time, effort, patience and self-discovery but it is oh so worth it!


Here is me with my certificate after I passed earlier on in the year:




I plan to continue my professional development and take courses in the following:


· Pre-Conception, Pregnancy and Post-Natal Reflexology

· Spinal Reflexology

· Facial Reflexology


I also have a huge interest in ear reflexology and ear seeds, the latter I have been using on myself for the past few months with great results. This has encouraged me to sign up to a course in Auricular Reflexology - more info on this to come soon so stay tuned!


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The best way you can find out what reflexology can do for you, or if you are looking for a complimentary treatment to help manage the symptoms of pain, stress or anxiety, is to book yourself in for a treatment and give it a go.



Reflexology can also be incorporated into a combination treatment. If you’re looking for some inspiration - some of my most popular combination treatments that include Reflexology are as follows:


· 30mins Back/Neck/Shoulder Massage & 60mins Reflexology

· 30mins Facial Rejuvenation & 60mins Reflexology

· 60mins Full Body Massage* & 60mins Reflexology

· 60mins Facial Rejuvenation & 60mins Reflexology

· 60mins Holistic Facial & 60mins Reflexology


You can book your Combination Treatments here:



*Please note, if you opt for the Women’s Balance Luxury Full Body Massage in your combination treatment, there is an extra £5 charge. You can read more about the Women’s Balance Full Body Massage here:



Thanks for reading! I hope this blog post has been informative and I have convinced you to try out the fabulous therapy that is Reflexology.


Please do let me know if you have any questions & I will be more than happy to answer them!


Jodie x


Disclaimer


Please note a Reflexologist should never claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe and a reflexology treatment should not be used as an alternative to seeking medical advice from your GP or healthcare provider.


References:



75 views1 comment

1 Comment


still team
still team
Apr 10, 2023

Excellent post, It was great to know that a physical therapist will work on the pain and injury that causes an imbalance in the body and promote healing and recovery while preventing permanent damage. That sounds nice. I will surely suggest you please visit our site if you need any kind of massage therapy..https://www.perfectbalancedayspa.net/

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