What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a complementary therapy that works on the feet enabling the body to heal itself. The theory is that following illness, stress, injury or disease, the body is in a state of "imbalance", and that vital energy pathways are blocked, preventing the body from functioning effectively. Reflexology may be used to restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium and encourage healing.

A Reflexologist uses hands only to apply pressure to the feet. For each person the application and the effect of the therapy is unique. Sensitive, trained hands may detect imbalances in the feet, and by working on these points. The Reflexologist can release blockages and restore the free flow of energy to the whole body. Tensions are eased, and circulation and elimination might be improved. This gentle therapy encourages the body to heal itself, often counteracting a lifetime of misuse.

How can Reflexology help me?
Reflexology can be used to help restore and maintain the body's natural equilibrium. This gentle therapy encourages the body to work naturally to restore its own healthy balance.

Reflexology has anecdotally been shown to be effective for:

• Stress-related conditions
• Migraine
• Fertility
• Sleep disorders
• Hormonal Imbalances
• and other various problems

Reflexologists do not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe. Each session of reflexology works on an individual basis.

Who can benefit from Reflexology?
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and may bring relief from a wide range of acute and chronic conditions. After having completed a course of reflexology treatments for a specific condition, many people find it beneficial to continue to have occasional treatments to maintain health and well-being.

Many people use reflexology as a way of relaxing the mind and body and counteracting stress.  Some doctors, consultants and other health care professionals recognise Reflexology as a well established, respected and effective therapy.

With ever increasing levels of stress, it is important for people take more responsibility for their own health care needs.

What happens when I go for a treatment?
On the first visit, the reflexology practitioner will have a preliminary talk with you to determine your present and past health and lifestyle.

The reflexologist will then use their hands to apply pressure to the feet. The application and the effect of the therapy are unique to each person.

A professionally trained reflexologist may detect subtle changes in specific points on the feet, and by working on these points may affect the corresponding organ or system of the body.

A treatment session usually lasts for about one hour. A course of treatment may be recommended depending on your body's needs.

How will I feel after a reflexology treatment?
After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is transitory and is part of the healing process.

This is vital information to feed back to the reflexologist as it shows how your body is responding to treatment. This will help the reflexologist to tailor a treatment plan specific to your needs.