What is Foot Reflexology?
Foot Reflexology is generally misunderstood as a foot massage, but it is much more than that. Foot Reflexology is a scientific art based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet that correspond to all body parts. Reflexology is administered by using application of thumb and finger pressure to specific points on the feet. Each specific point corresponds with an internal organ and other structure. The pressure allows the release of blocked energy and built up toxins. During a treatment, mental and physical tensions are released and a state of relaxation is induced. This allows the body to improve circulation, encourage lymphatic drainage, stimulate nerve pathways and relax muscles.
What is Hand Reflexology?
Hand Reflexology offers the same benefits as a Foot Reflexology. Hand reflexology can be done alone or be given in conjunction with a foot reflexology session. Reflexology is administered by using application of thumb and finger pressure to specific points on the hand. Each specific point corresponds to an internal organ and other structures of the body to release energy blocks and toxic build-up.
Who can benefit from Reflexology sessions?
Everyone can benefit from Reflexology treatments. You do not have to have an illness to have Reflexology. Clients who want to alleviate stress can benefit from Reflexology. All ages can benefit from Reflexology, including children. Children must be able to sit for an hour session. A parent or legal guardians are required to accompany minors under the age of 18, but may decide not to sit in during a session with the minor.
What can I expect at a first Reflexology session?
Clients will be asked to fill out a health history and release form. Parents must sign for children under the age of 18. Please bring signed and filled form to the first session. The Reflexologist will go over the form with the client and discuss how a session will be tailored to their needs. Clients are encouraged to ask questions. The first session is approximately 90 minutes, which comprise of health history discussion and 60 minutes of active session and answer any questions at the end of the session. Thereafter, sessions are normally 45-60 minutes in length.
At all sessions, clients will be asked to remove socks and shoes. The feet and/or hands will be cleansed with either hand wipes or in a warm bath. Other than the removal of socks and shoes, the client is fully dressed. The client lies on a massage table or an anti-gravity chair for the session. The Reflexology treatment consists of medium thumb and finger pressure applied to feet or/and hand. Powder and/or lotion may be used during the session. Please let the Reflexologist know if you have any allergies.
What will I feel during a Reflexology session?
Many people find reflexology sessions, for the most part, very relaxing. It is not uncommon for clients to fall asleep. Some clients will begin to perspire due to toxins being released from the body. The pressure that is applied is firm, but not painful. If there are painful points on the hands/feet, these are signs of energy blocks at the corresponding body point. The Reflexologist will continue to work the tender spots until energy blocks are released. At any time if the pressure is uncomfortable, let the Reflexologist know and the pressure will be reduced. For people who have ticklish feet, no need to worry, the pressure is a firm touch.
How will I feel after a Reflexology session?
Directly after a session, clients may feel very rested and in a relaxed state of mind. It is the responsibility of the client to ensure that she or he is fully alert before proceeding to drive a car.
After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very definite way. Most people noticed that they have more energy, and more productive waste elimination, sleep better, and have a sense of well being. Please note how your body responds to treatments and inform the Reflexologist so that sessions will be tailored to your specific needs. It is suggested that clients drink approximately 64 oz of clear water a day to flush toxins following a session. Reflexology can help with:
- Stress and stress-related conditions
- Tension or migraine headaches
- Gastrointestinal disorders
- Arthritis
- Insomnia
- Hormonal imbalances
- Menstrual disorders, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS), or heavy, painful, irregular periods
- Menopause
- Infertility
- Constipation
With regular Reflexology sessions, clients with debilitating muscular skeletal disorders such as Rheumatoid and Osteo Arthritis were able to lessen arthritis flare-ups, in some cases, by 75-100%. Clients were able to maintain or reduce arthritis medication to a lower dosage.
For clients experiencing heavy and painful menustral cycle for seven days or more were able to decrease their discomfort and flow by 25-50% with regular reflexology sessions. The duration of the cycle decreased, on average from seven to five days.
For clients experiencing hot flashes due to menopause (6-12 combined day and night hot flashes) were able to lessen frequency and intensity of hot flash episodes by 50%-75% with regular reflexology sessions.
For clients experiencing fertility issues, Reflexology has been shown to help couples to maximize health conditions to support the body prior and during pregnancy.
Reflexology is recommended as a complementary therapy to conventional medicine and does NOT replace conventional medical treatment.
How many Reflexology sessions will I need before I see results?
Clients may see results after one or two sessions. For maximum results, it is suggested that clients have one or two sessions per week for four to five consecutive weeks. At the end of two weeks, we will evaluate. Upon health improvement, sessions are spaced to bi-weekly or every three weeks, then every 4-6 weeks for maintenance.
