Reflexology is a form of massage that is applied to the feet or face. It’s based on the concept that these areas of the body are connected to different systems and organs in the body, and by relieving stress and tension, we can enjoy health benefits and improved well-being through healing and regeneration. But how does it work and what techniques are used during a reflexology session?
How does reflexology work?
A non-invasive complementary therapy, reflexology can help to enhance relaxation and improve well-being by reducing stress and building up resilience. As a touch therapy, it works on the theory that specific points on the feet, lower leg, hands, face and ears all correspond with different areas of the body. When a reflexologist applies pressure to these areas, it can stimulate healing and regeneration in other areas of the body.
A guiding principle of this treatment is that the reflexologist is just a participant in the session, as opposed to the healer. This is a response to the fact that the therapy is provided as a way of bringing the body into natural balance so it can repair itself.
The touch from a reflexology session can calm the central nervous system and promote relaxation, like a traditional massage, but it is also believed to help boost the immune system, ease pain from conditions such as arthritis, help recovery from back problems and treat nerve problems. Studies have shown that it can be beneficial in reducing pain, lifting mood, easing stress and anxiety, and much more.
Is reflexology suitable for me and my condition?
Since it’s a non-invasive treatment and comfortable to receive as a treatment, it’s considered to be very safe. So, even if you have been diagnosed with a serious health condition, you should be able to enjoy a reflexology session. However, if you’re concerned or have any questions, we recommend you speak with one of our qualified reflexologists.
Reflexology can be received by people of all ages, from babies and women during pregnancy through to those receiving end-of-life care and all in between. However, you shouldn’t have reflexology if you’re recovering from an injured foot, if you have gout or if you have blood clots, as the treatment can affect blood flow.
What happens during a reflexology treatment?
Your reflexologist will request details of your medical history during your first appointment and you’ll be asked to sign a consent form to start receiving treatment. Reflexology is an easy treatment to start with as, depending on the type of reflexology, the most clothing you’ll need to remove are your shoes and socks.
Your reflexologist will then use their hands to apply different levels of pressure to your feet, legs, hands, ears or face, depending on the type of reflexology you’re receiving. They might return to certain pressure points over the course of your session, but they’ll cover the entire area being treated during the course of your appointment.
The pressure might be quite firm in certain areas, but the discomfort is only temporary and dissipates once the pressure is removed. Overall, it’s a very relaxing treatment to receive. Depending on your symptoms and the reason for your session, you may require several courses of treatment.
How will I feel after a reflexology session?
Reflexology is relaxing for most people and after one or two treatments, you should find that your body starts to respond in a noticeable way to the techniques used during your appointment.
Some people find that they can feel a little lethargic or nauseous after reflexology, but these side effects are usually transitory and tend to subside quickly. It’s useful to speak with your reflexologist about how you feel after each session so that they can tailor future sessions to you.
Key takeaways
Reflexology is a complementary treatment that can be particularly beneficial to those with anxiety and tension or struggling with joint pain. It’s a relaxing therapy that can ease stress in the body and brings the body back into balance so it can heal itself.
At The Westway Clinic, we offer a range of reflexology services, including facial reflexology, maternity reflexology and reflexology for men. Contact us today to find out more or to book an appointment.
