Reflexology

Reflexology is a technique in which the body's own healing powers are activated through applying an acupressure type massage to the feet.

The various organs, glands, nerves, muscles and other areas of the body are connected with specific reflex areas in the feet and hands. Through working these reflexes, any imbalance in the body can be detected and then brought back into balance.

Reflexology is a Holistic approach to natural health care and a valuable preventative theory. It is a safe and effective way to health.

Reflexology is not a 'cure', but it is a fact that patients attest to better health and a definite reduction, or even disappearance, of their problems. It induces deep relaxation, hence relieving stresses and tensions, as well as helping a wide range of conditions including:

• migraines
• backand neck problems
• sciatica
• hormonal disorders
• arthritis
• asthma
• digestive disorders
• insomnia

Reflexology's increasing popularity worldwide is due to it's effectiveness in maintaining good health as well as relieving all forms of physical and mental discomfort.

There is proof that Reflexology has been used in Ancient Egypt and China dating back to 1279.

Reflexology beliefs are that by treating the 'person as a whole' rather than just one or two ailments or problems is a more efficient and long term form of treatment.

Orthodox medicine identifies an invader (bacteria, a virus or a parasite) or a disorder within the body and attacks this 'enemy' with powerful weapons (ie antibiotics), dealing with individual portions of the body in isolation. Eastern therapeutic practices such as Reflexology believe that an illness is caused by a number of factors, including an inner problem that has weakened the body's natural defences. They seek to heal this by strengthening the body, removing any obstacles to well-being and improving the energy flow. When we are run down or ill our energy flow does not flow freely.

The aim of Reflexology is to work with the body's strengths and tendencies and with its natural inclination to heal. We run on 'vital energy', so we need to keep the energy flowing and keep the body running efficiently by treating the cause as well as the symptom.

Our feet represent our body and for each part of the body (mentally, physically and emotionally) we have a pressure point. A Reflexologist applies pressure to each point in order to correct any imbalances and allow the body to run efficiently again, clearing any blockages.

Some areas can be a little tender on the feet indicating that there is an imbalance that needs to be worked on in that area.

Please try to avoid stimulants (coffee, tea, alcohol, chocolate) for 24 hours after a treatment, as the treatment has a mild detoxifying action, and drink as much water as possible to aid the de-tox. Also try to rest as much as possible to help your body shut down and heal itself.

Most people notice a feeling of well-being and relaxation after a treatment, however sometimes you may feel lethargic after a treatment. Feeling lethargic is caused by a release of toxins from the body and is a good sign your body is healing itself. Drinking water to flush out any excess toxins in your system can help with the process.