Reflexology is a science that deals with the principle that there are reflex areas in the feet and hands which correspond to all of the glands, organs and parts of the body.

Stimulating these reflexes properly can help many health problems in a natural way, a type of preventative maintenance. Reflexology is a serious advance in the health field and should not be confused with massage. When we talk about 'stimulating' reflexes on the feet and hands, we are actually rousing energy that produces a reaction in a specific organ or gland.

The idea behind reflexology is not new - in fact, it was practiced as early as 2330 B.C., by the Egyptian culture. Reflexology as we know it today was first researched and developed by Eunice Ingham, the pioneer in this field and founder of the International Institute of Reflexology®. Her book on the subject, "Stories the Feet Can Tell/Have Told Thru Reflexology", was first published in 1938 and is still available today through the International Institute.

Reflexology helps to:

Relax and calm

Balance the body

Improve nerve and blood supply

Reflexologists do not:

Diagnose

Prescribe

Treat for a specific condition

Reflexology is a complementary therapy which means that it sits very well alongside orthodox medicine. It should never be used as a replacement for seeing professional medical advice.

Foot Reflexology is perhaps the most well-known form of Reflexology practised in the UK. It is based on the principle that there are reflexes on the feet which relate to the organs, glands and parts of the body. By stimulating these reflexes with a unique thumb and finger walking technique, we can enhance the nerve and blood supply, help to balance the body and relax the client.

It's History:

Foot Reflexology was developed by Eunice Ingham, founder of the International Institute of Reflexology. She carefully mapped out the anatomy of the body on the feet and created the first ever foot charts. The International Institute of Reflexology is the only organisation which teaches the Original Ingham Method™ of Reflexology and uses that original foot chart.

What to Expect:

Reflexologists, trained under the International Institute of Reflexology will carry out a treatment on both feet, generally lasting around 45 minutes. The routine begins with a full client consultation, where a full medical history is taken. There will then be an examination of the feet and then some general relaxation techniques before the practitioner walks with the thumbs and fingers over all of the reflexes.

If a client is a young child, elderly or unwell, the practitioner may reduce the length of the treatment, or use lighter pressure on the feet. It may also be appropriate to give Reflexology more frequently.

If a reflex is imbalanced, the Practitioner may feel crystal-like deposits under the skin.

Reflexology is great for improving blood circulation and the nervous system, which are vital for organs to work effectively. Blood transports nutrients around the body and removes waste.

75% of all illnesses can be attributed to nervous tension (stress). Reflexology is known to relax the body and ease this tension by helping the systems to work more effectively. When the body is balanced, it has its own natural healing ability.

Reactions to Reflexology:

During or after a treatment, clients may have physical or emotional reactions. The treatment will encourage the body to rid itself of toxins, it therefore vital that clients ensure that they drink plenty of fresh water after a Reflexology treatment, to flush these toxins through the body. Any reactions from a treatment should disappear within 24 hours.

Reactions during or after a treatment might include feeling sleepy, feeling energised and alert, needing to visit the toilet more frequently, a slight runny nose, increased perspiration, shivering. These reactions are, if anything, a positive sign that the Reflexology treatment is working to balance your body. Everyone is different and you may not experience any noticeable reactions, yet the Reflexology will have been a positive experience. Practitioners often work on the theory that ailments can temporarily worsen before they improve, as the Reflexology speeds up the healing process.

Reflexology is not at all ticklish and is not a painful experience, however if there are reflexes with energy blockages, they can be slightly uncomfortable until they have been properly worked and balanced.

Improving your Wellbeing:

During your treatment, Reflexologists trained under the International Institute of Reflexology will work on:

Relaxation

The Skeletal system

The Muscular system

The Nervous system

The Cardiovascular system

The Lymphatic system

The Sense organs

The Respiratory system

The Digestive system

The Urinary system

The Endocrine glands

The Reproductive system

Once a full treatment has been given, time permitting, the practitioner will re-visit any reflexes which need further attention.