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Reflexology: |
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What is it & why is it becoming increasingly popular? |
What is reflexology
Reflexology is a natural, non-invasive holistic therapy where gentle pressure is applied to areas of the feet (or hands). The theory states that the feet/hands map parts of the body and through stimulating these different reflex areas the effects of stress on organs, systems of the body and the individual as a whole can be reduced. Not only do clients become deeply relaxed, it has the added effect of encouraging specific parts of the body to respond. This effect has been shown using modern day medical techniques, such as ultrasound.
In my experience, the majority turn to reflexology for help with pain or pre-existing problems, to support conventional medicine or when they have found little relief from this approach.
In fact, this therapy is becoming increasingly integrated into traditional health care. Examples of this include 80% of palliative care units employing a reflexologist and it is often used in fertility units and for those undergoing cancer treatment to reduce the side effects.
Reflexology is suitable for all ages and is often used to support those suffering from ailments and with pre-existing conditions
Its history
This is ancient therapy that has been practised for thousands of years, with paintings showing its use in Egypt over 4000 years ago. It was introduced to the western world in 1913 by Dr Fitzgerald whose research identified how reflex areas on the feet and hands were linked to organs within ‘zones’. The research also showed that applying pressure to one area of the body could provide an analgesic effect on another and that the underlying cause of the pain could be relieved.
How can it help me?
This therapy encourages the body to naturally restore its own healthy balance. Everyone respond differently to treatment, some people notice a positive change to their well-being during their first reflexology session, whilst others, with longer term problems can require more treatments. All the systems of the body are linked and an imbalance in one area can impact on others. Reflexology considers the person as a whole and recognises that every person is unique.
Experts accept 75% of all illnesses and diseases are linked to stress Reflexology has been shown to reduce the impact of stress on the body.
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Benefits include: |
Some of the many conditions that can be helped: |
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How to choose a therapist
There is no legal requirement to be trained to a specific level to be able to call yourself a reflexologist. So, to ensure you receive a high level of care and treatment choose a reflexologist that is a member of the Association of Reflexology (MAR), you can be assured that they are highly trained to a nationally recognised standard and continually demonstrate that they meet the strictest standards for professional excellence in reflexology practice. In addition, if you choose someone who is also registered with the Complementary and Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC) this provides further assurances as the CNHC was set up by the government to protect the public. The government recommends that when people are looking for a complementary health practitioner, such as reflexologists, that they only consult a practitioner on an accredited register such as CNHC’s.
A bit about me:
I live in Orpington and run my ‘Sole Therapy Reflexology’ practice from home. I am a mum of 2 young boys and, prior to becoming a reflexologist, I worked within health and education. I am a former midwife, I have a Diploma in reflexology, as well as training in a range of specialised reflexology treatments including Baby & Toddler Reflex, RLD lymphatic drainage, maternity and spinal treatments. I am a member of the Association of Reflexologists and the Complementary Natural Healthcare Council. At Sole Therapy Reflexology, only organic products are used and the relaxing therapy space is enhanced with soft music, warmed oil and heated cloths.
Readers Offer: Receive additional hand reflexology for free with your second booking. Quote HM1Hands for this offer.
For more information about reflexology, the different treatments available or if you would like to discuss how it could help you contact Emma on 07734 866371, emma@soletherapyreflexology.co.uk or visit www.soletherapyreflexology.co.uk
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Emma Clark, MAR, BSc