Reflexology is based on the concept that the feet have reflex points that mirror each organ and gland in the body. The left foot corresponds to the left side of the body, while the right foot corresponds to the right side. Therefore, by working on both feet, we are essentially treating the entire body. It's easy to neglect our feet, but they contain numerous nerve endings that originate from the spine, making them highly sensitive.
Reflexology is both old and new. Early Chinese and Indian civilisations believed that there are energy zones that run through the body and that they can be accessed via the feet. But it was a physiotherapist, in the 1930's, called Eunice Ingham that first 'mapped' the entire body onto the feet.
Laura Norman has been a practitioner and teacher of reflexology for over forty years. In her 'Reflexology Handbook' she writes that 'during a reflexology treatment, as in acupuncture or shiatsu, energy pathways are opened up and the subtle energy that accompanies neurological and circulatory functioning can do its work.'
Discover the Amazing Benefits of Reflexology at Bliss Holistics
Some of my clients prefer reflexology to massage as they say that a 60-minute session feels very much like having a full-body massage treatment. After your health consultation, you remove your shoes and socks, and I will make you warm and comfortable on the treatment couch. I will begin by giving some light massage to the tops and soles of the feet and some gentle movement to the ankles and toes, to relax your feet and body. I then add either vegan reflexology wax or an essential oil blend and apply this to your feet. If you have hard or cracked skin, especially around the heels, my essential oil blends are ideal as they contain nourishing plant oils like Apricot and Grapeseed, as well as healing essential oils. Peppermint and Lavender are lovely cooling oils to use if you have hot or swollen feet. Eucalyptus has anti-inflammatory properties and when blended with Lemongrass, it has an energizing and uplifting effect.
Using my thumb, I will work on your entire feet, adapting the pressure to suit your preferences. The aim is to ensure that the treatment is pleasurable and calming, allowing you to relax and release physical and mental stress and tension. Some parts of your feet may feel sensitive, just like your muscles do during a massage. Clients generally experience this tenderness as a 'good soreness' and find it highly soothing. Sometimes when I am working on the feet clients will feel a sensation in the corresponding part of their body. It is not uncommon to drift off to sleep during your reflexology session.
When your treatment has ended you will be invited to spend a few minutes just to rest on the massage couch. Your treatment should not feel rushed or hurried. You may feel thirsty after your reflexology and so water will always be provided.
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