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The current theory is that reflexology works
on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet and hands
that correspond to all the body organs and systems, and that
by applying pressure to those reflexes you can bring the body
back into a homeostasis or balance.
In western reflexology no implements are used, only the therapists
hands. In the eastern style of reflexology found in Asia,
implements are used and the finger pressure is much heavier.
Where did it come from?
Reflexology is not new, it has its origins in ancient Egypt,
China and India. There are drawings on the walls of a pyramid
in Egypt showing people having their hands and feet 'worked'.
In the ancient texts of China and India, reference is made
to working areas of the feet.
What happens during a reflexology session?
The first visit to a reflexologist will generally take about
15 minutes longer than subsequent treatments. The reflexologist
will probably ask you about your medical history and about
your diet, exercise and general health. The reflexologist
will take detailed notes about your lifestyle before looking
at your feet, they will then make notes on the color, look
and feel of your feet.
Sometimes the reflexologist will give you a warm relaxing
foot bath or they may do a biomechanical foot assessment.
But this will depend on the reflexologist.
They will then 'work' the entire area of both feet, some
reflexologists also work the hands and some also work the
ears. It will generally take about 45 minutes to work the
feet, this obviously depends on the size of the feet - the
bigger they are the longer it will take. The young or elderly
will generally be given shorter treatments but more often
so the body systems are not overstimulated. Sometimes on a
first visit the session will be shorter as the reflexologist
doesn't want to overstimulate the body and each session after
will usually be 45-60 minutes.
During the session you may feel different sensations in your
feet, it may feel like a sharp pain or your feet may feel
very sensitive. Sensitivity varies from person to person and
from treatment to treatment. But generally the session will
be calming and comforting, it will not tickle since it is
a firm pressure to the feet. In the western style of reflexology
the treatment should not be painful or cause discomfort. The
practitioner will adjust the pressure to suit the client.
Reactions to treatments
Sometimes you may have a reaction to the treatment, the reactions
are usually pleasant - calm, relaxed or energised and rejuvenated.
Most reactions are cleansing reactions.
Some of these reactions are:
- increased urination as the kidneys are stimulated
- more frequent bowel movements
- improved circulation
- disrupted sleep patterns
- tiredness
You should not eat or drink immediately before a massage.
Make sure you have plenty of warm clothes following treatment
and use clothing that is old, as some oils can stain.
Give yourself plenty of time to relax after a treatment,
we recommend about an hour or two.
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