Reflexology

Reflexology is a holistic treatment based on the principle that there are areas and points on the feet, hands, and ears that map via the nervous system to corresponding parts of the body. When pressure is applied to these areas and points it stimulates the movement of energy along the nerve channels, and helps to restore homeostasis (balance) in the whole body. The advantage of having a reflexology session is that it requires minimal undressing and it only requires access to the feet.

The aim of Reflexology is to correct three negative factors involved in the disease process namely congestion, inflammation and tension.  Reflexology is intended to improve the body's circulation and assist the body in the elimination of waste products, so that the toxins do not have a chance to build up to harmful levels in the liver, kidneys or bowel.  Reflexology can help control the perception of pain by stimulating the release of endorphins - the natural painkillers - from the pituitary gland in the brain into the bloodstream.

All the systems need to be working together well to maintain a healthy balance. Stress, injury, or illness can cause the balance to be disrupted when component parts are less effective. Problems can then be compounded by the fact that the rest of the body works harder to compensate, potentially causing problems in other components. Reflexology is applied as a whole and not applied for specific areas or conditions.  We want the natural healing process to occur speedily and efficiently.

There are 7,000 plus nerve endings in the human foot, and each of these is a reflex point that corresponds to a body part. Reflexology uses special finger/thumb manipulations to stimulate reflex points, which will stimulate the flow of energy to the corresponding body part. This gradually helps to restore homeostasis and stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself, physically and emotionally. As reflex points are minute, the movements are quite precise and care must be taken to cover all of them to ensure that the treatment is comprehensive and therefore a holistic treatment for the whole body

One of the theories of reflexology is that the body will nurture and repair itself once released from stress. If the body is extremely stressed, the reflexologist may refer you to a medical team or another treatment.

The important aspect is for you to feel comforted and nurtured, and to feel that you have had time for yourself during the session. Gently bring yourself back into the present moment, and orient yourself.

It is recommended that you drink water, rest if necessary, and pay attention to your body in the next few hours. If any questions or concerns arise, you should call Karen.