Reflexology

Reflexology is a natural healing art and science based on the principle that there are reflexes located in the feet (hands and ears) that directly correspond to every part, gland and organ of the human body. By stimulating and applying pressure to these reflexes, Reflexology induces deep relaxation, improves circulation and naturally re-balances the body thus promoting a sense of wellbeing.
Reflexology, in the hands of a qualified practitioner, is perhaps the most powerful of all complementary therapies, and whilst no accredited and certified Reflexologist will ever claim to cure, experience shows that very positive health benefits are gained through the use of this therapy. It is also extremely beneficial as preventative health care.
Reflexology is also a non-invasive complementary therapy, which stimulates the body to heal itself naturally. From a holistic standpoint, Reflexology treats the “whole” person (including mind, body and spirit) and not just the prevailing symptoms.

Reflexology is an ancient form of therapy, originating around 5,000 years ago in India, China, Japan and Egypt. Present day reflexology was introduced to the West in 1913 by Dr William Fitzgerald. He developed the zone theory of the human body, and discovered that pressure applied to one part of the body could anaesthetize another.

In the 1930's a physiotherapist named Eunice Ingham further developed this theory. She mapped the entire body onto the feet and discovered that applying pressure on the various parts of the foot had therapeutic effects on corresponding parts of the body.

Reflexology is carried out mainly on the feet but can also be performed on the hands and ears.

Within all of us exists a vital energy or life force – the Chinese refer to this as Chi and the ancient language of Sanskrit refers to this as Prana. This energy moves within us circulating between all the organs of the body. If for some reason this energy becomes blocked or congested, the part of the body relating to that blockage is also affected. Congestion is usually a result of toxicity, trauma, disease or physical and emotional stress. By applying pressure to the reflexes and blocked/congested areas of the feet, Reflexology induces a prolonged state of deep relaxation, thereby facilitating the release of these blockages and allowing the energy to flow more freely around the body. It also enables the body to heal itself and helps to restore and maintain the body’s natural state (homeostasis).
Since it has been estimated that 75% of disease is stress related, inducing a prolonged state of relaxation is a major contribution to the return of the individual’s health. As treatments continue over time this state of relaxation becomes deeper and more established.

• Allows for deep muscle relaxation thus reducing tension and stress
• Improves cardiovascular and lymphatic circulation
• Improved elimination
• Reduces pain by releasing endorphins
• Cleanses the body of toxins and impurities
• Creates homeostasis (a natural state of balance within the body)
• Revitalizes energy and aids concentration

What Conditions Can Reflexology Help?
Whilst Reflexology does not claim to cure, diagnose or prescribe, it is a very safe treatment and has brought relief for a wide range of acute and chronic conditions including:

• Anxiety
• Arthritis
• Asthma
• Back Pain
• Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Colitis
• Digestive Disorders (Constipation, IBS etc…)
• Hay fever
• Headaches, Migraines
• Hiccups
• Hormonal Imbalances
• Insomnia (Sleep disorders)
• Infections (Sinusitis, Cystitis etc…)
• Infertility
• Menstrual Disorders (PMS, Menopause)
• Mild Depression
• Muscular Aches and Pains
• Nerve disorders (MS, Parkinson’s Disease etc…)
• Pregnancy Management
• Stress Related Conditions
• Skin disorders (Eczema, Acne, and Psoriasis)
• Sports Injuries
• Ulcers
• Whiplash
  

Reflexology is suitable for all ages including young babies and the elderly.