Reflexology is a non-invasive, natural therapy that treats the entire body by applying firm, gentle pressure to reflex areas located on the feet, hands, and ears. It is believed that these reflex areas correspond with the various organs, glands, and systems of the body. By applying this pressure, the practitioner can influence the corresponding area of the body, aiding the natural healing processes and, thereby, restoring balance. Treatments have been shown to reduce harmful stress and tension, as well as relieving pain and discomfort due to injury.
Not only does Reflexology reduce physical, emotional, and psychological pain, the deep state of relaxation obtained during a Reflexology session protects the body from the harmful accumulative effects of stress. Chronic stress has been proven to cause a depletion of the body's immune system, which can lead to disease. It is for this reason reflexology is a viable preventative health care measure. Research has shown the specific techniques of Reflexology to be effective and beneficial in many ways.
Reflexology is used safely and effectively with patients for a variety of health concerns including anxiety, asthma, cancer treatment, cardiovascular issues, diabetes, headaches, kidney function, PMS, sinusitis and overall stress relief. It also works well as a complement to other modalities and treatments. The following section walks you through a typical appointment and answers some common concerns.
A Reflexology session begins with the review of a health record form that the client has filled out and signed. This opens dialogue with your practitioner as to what of your reasons are for choosing this complimentary therapy for your health and wellness needs. The practitioner explains how Reflexology works and what happens during a session. Remember that it is okay, and even expected, for you to ask questions. You should feel comfortable communicating with the Reflexologist. If the practitioner is not forthcoming with information, or is dismissive of questions or concerns, this could be a "red flag," and you have every right to terminate the appointment.
The practitioner may choose to work only on the feet, or the hands, or the ears - depending on your specific health issues. Some problems respond better to work on the feet, others to work on the hands; yet others respond better to the reinforcement of work on all three - hands, ear and feet. In some situations, for example a patient in the hospital may have IV's and multiple tubes and wires, so a Reflexology session may be limited to the feet by necessity. If the Reflexologist chooses to work on your feet, you will lie or sit down, remaining fully clothed except for your shoes and socks (it is very important to wear loose, comfortable clothing for your appointment). The practitioner will cleanse your feet with an antibacterial foot wipes, then position them at his or her chest level. The practitioner wears a barrier cream often used by medical staff. This cream protects the hands of the practitioner while working on the feet. The practitioner will begin by assessing your feet for open wounds, rashes, sores, plantar warts or bunions and will ask you about any foot or leg pain that could hinder treatment.
There are certain conditions of the feet that might have the practitioner rescheduling the appointment such as a fungal infection, this is highly contagious and can be transferred to other clients. At which case your practitioner would suggest some natural treatments but would have to schedule you after the infections has been treated as to not risk of spreading to another client. Generally a session lasts between 60 minutes. You can rest or talk during the session at your discretion. If you fall asleep during the session, you will still receive the benefits of the treatment. Feedback during the session is encouraged, and of course, you can request that the session stop at any time.
Regardless of your health condition(s) (for example, migraine, nausea, sciatica, etc.), the Reflexologist focuses on the entire pattern of the Reflexology therapy, starting at the toes and working down the foot. Having a specific condition in mind allows the Reflexologist to carefully feel and work the area corresponding to the presenting problem. However, a Reflexologist will work all areas of the foot with gentle pressure, because, according to Reflexology theories, this allows the nerve pathways and congestion to release and promotes the relaxation response for the entire body. For example, if you are suffering from migraines, the migraine points on the toes will be carefully, mindfully worked, assessing congestion or tension in the foot. But the Reflexologist will still work the entire pattern on your foot in order to address the whole body. Throughout, the Reflexologist will stay present, grounded, and in a calm and centered state of awareness.
Experiences with Reflexology sessions vary from a general sense of relaxation and rest to a conscious awareness internally of the area of the body where the practitioner is working through the foot, hand or ear. Many people experience a "lightness" or tingling in the body, as well as feelings of warmth, a sense of "opening," or "energy moving" from the practitioner's pressure to the specific body area or organ. There is often a physical perception of energy flowing through every organ, valve, gland, or muscle, as well as a sense of communication between each body system.