Friday 7 November 2014

What the eff is Reflexology?

 As you may or may not know - 
I am currently in the process of become a Certified Foot Reflexologist  - yay! 
I am so excited to be able to offer something fresh and new !

So what is it? How does it work? What are the benefits and who is it for? 
(spoiler alert - it's for everyone!)

image c/o lillahschwartz.com 



 What is it? What to expect from a treatment:

Foot Reflexology is an ancient holistic therapy that (like massage) promotes your body's natural ability to self-heal.  While Massage Therapy focuses on calming the nervous system through the muscles, Reflexology works the nervous system directly.



A one hour treatment focused entirely on the feet. You are fully clothed ( except for your feet!) and can be seated or laying down. Using mainly my thumbs, this is  a no-oil technique where I apply a stimulating, rhythmic pressure - It is very relaxing and most people are asleep by the second foot - but don't worry - your body is still receiving!


The aim of Reflexology is to correct three 'negative factors' involved in the disease process:

-congestion
-inflammation
-tension



 How does it work?

Reflexology is based on the principle that there are reflex areas in your feet (and hands! and head!) that correspond to every area in your body. Therefore by stimulating both feet you can balance the entire body, improving circulation, energy flow, eliminating toxins, I like to think of it as a massage from the inside out!



 Like Massage (and many other holistic modalities, like acupressure and acupuncture) this treatment helps to bring your nervous system into Parasympathetic Mode (aka Rest & Digest). It is in this mode that your body can repair and regenerate!

 
 image c/o kitchomassage.com

Click here to get an idea of the reflex points on the foot (keeping in mind that - like a game of 'telephone' - because this map has been passed around the world for ages - there are slightly different versions out there and therefore - some differing opinions on some points!)

 

  Who's it for?

 Reflexology is suitable for all ages and a long list of conditions ranging from acute to chronic!
((Length of treatment and pressure used can always be modified.))

It's also beneficial for those who may be uncomfortable with full body techniques, or have areas that need work but are too sensitive to the touch.

If your a ticklish person or can't stand the idea of someone touching your feet- Let me convert you! :)



 stay tuned for future Foot Reflexology posts on Fridays!