Reflexology

What is it?

Reflexology, also known as zone therapy, is a non-invasive complementary health therapy that can help with deep relaxation and wellbeing. The treatment can help to reduce stress, builds up better immune system and improve general health.

Reflexology is a method of treatment using massage or pressure to reflex areas found in the feet and the hands. Most commonly, the feet are used as the areas to be treated. In the feet, there are reflex areas corresponding to all the parts of the body and these areas are arranged in such a way as to form a map of the body in the feet with the right foot corresponding to the right side of the body and the left foot corresponding to the left side of the body. By having the whole body represented in the feet, the method offers a means of treating the whole body and of treating the body as a whole thus helping symptoms and the causes of symptoms.

Pressure is applied to specific points using thumb, finger, and hand massage techniques without the use of oil or lotion. The method has been used for several thousands of years and is known to have been practised in a similar manner by the Chinese and the Egyptians.

Reflexology can be used safely alongside standard healthcare to promote better health for yourselves.

Who is it suitable for?

Reflexology is suitable for anyone of any age, from new born babies through to those receiving end of life care, and everyone in between.

Where can it help?

Reflexology is relaxing and helps provide potential benefits such as:

  • reduce stress and anxiety

  • reduce pain

  • lift mood

  • improve general well-being

  • Insomnia,

  • Increased energy,

  • balancing hormones,

  • anxiety,

  • depression

  • generally bringing calmness and stillness to your body and mind.

Provided By:

Alison Marsden

Kathryn Fife

What to expect

  • Reflexology is tailored to you as a whole person, taking into account all factors that might be affecting your wellbeing.

    After a thorough consultation the treatment will start by relaxing you with gentle massage strokes to your feet and lower legs. Then by using thumb and finger techniques on your feet your reflexologist will be aiming to stimulate energy flow and send signals around your body - targeting areas of tension and pain.

    All you have to do is remove your shoes and socks, lie back, relax and let your therapist do the work!

  • After one or two treatments your body may respond in a very noticeable way. Most people note a sense of well-being and relaxation; however, sometimes people report feeling lethargic, nauseous or tearful, but this is usually transitory and reflexologists believe that it is part of the healing process.