Helen Kate McGovern

What is Reflexology?

Reflexology - or zone therapy - is a therapy in which the nerve endings are stimulated in the feet. This is done by specific massage techniques on each area of the foot which enables changes in another part of the body. This then treats that area, creating health and overcoming disease. The foot mirrors congestion or tension in a related part of the body. Therefore, treating the areas of the feet could have a relaxing and healing effect on different organs and tissues inside the body.

How does it work?

Reflexology is sometimes known as zone therapy as the body is divided into different zones represented by a point in the foot or hand. Nerve endings are embedded in the feet and hands and then travel to the spinal cord and then to various parts of the body. Stimulating these nerve endings thereby helps promote relaxation, improve circulation, stimulate vital organs in the body and encourage the body's natural healing processes.

Reflexology works on the underlying problems within the body working through the body's nervous system.

What does treatment involve?

Reflexology treatments can take up to an hour or more and usually about six weekly sessions are recommended for optimum results. A detailed case history is taken on your first visit. The treatment incolves light, but firm, compression massage to the soles and uppers of your feet. It is possible that there may be a reaction to the first treatment in various forms, this could be increased bowel movements, cold type symptoms or skin problems. This is a healthy sign which tells you that the treatment has encouraged the release of harmful toxins from the body. During treatment some areas of the foot may feel little tender, these usually coincide with the problem areas in the body.

Reflexology should not be used in the early stages of pregnancy, diabetes or a heart problem. If you do have treatment, you will find that reflexology is typically a very pleasant, relaxing and rejuvenating therapy. The treatment is precise and firm, therefore do not worry if you have ticklish feet! Specific attention will be paid to any actual problem areas. For example a stiff neck will be treated on the specific area on the foot, for a while longer than healthy areas.

Reflexology may also enhance any other treatments you are having, subject to medical confirmation, by keeping the circulation stimulated and the lymph system active.