In recent decades, reflexology as an ancient form of natural healing, has become increasingly popular in the mainstream. If you’re wondering what’s behind the rise and rise of reflexology as a complementary kind of holistic therapy, it’s because of its many modern-day benefits.
From irritable bowel to insomnia to stress, a reflexologist accesses energy pathways in your body by working with your feet or hands to help improve your overall health and wellbeing.
And because reflexology is non-intrusive, low risk, and without known side effects, it’s easy to understand why so many people try it out and then choose to continue with this natural therapy for months, and even for years.
What is reflexology?
With a history dating back to ancient Egypt to Chinese medicine to modern Western practice, reflexology is in today’s mainstream as a specialised form of complementary therapy.
The basic principle of modern reflexology (also known as zone theory or zone therapy), is that by applying pressure to various reflex points in your feet or hands, a reflexologist is able to remove energy blockages. This promotes health in corresponding parts of your body or organs, rebalancing your nervous system and releasing endorphins so you’ll feel energised and rejuvenated. For the best results, reflexology should be done on a regular basis (which is something your therapist will guide you on).
And while a reflexologist won’t give you medical advice, reflexology can help support traditional medicine as a complementary treatment. Reflexology is also proven to be an alternative natural option for non-life threatening chronic conditions.
Reflexology is not…
In understanding all that reflexology is, it’s key to know what it is not.
Reflexology is not a foot massage. It is a highly specialised form of holistic treatment, accessing problem areas in your body through pressure points on your feet or hands.
Reflexology is also not a medical solution. Although it often provides an alternative approach to mild health issues reflexology doesn’t replace mainstream medicine for acute conditions. Although a highly skilled reflexologist will be able to pick up on things and provide treatment for ailments and disorders.
The many benefits of reflexology
Reflexology has many known benefits which can help in various ways. While each case is uniquely different, a reflexologist can help with:
- Digestive problems
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Insomnia
- Hormone imbalance
- Muscular spasms
- Tension
Additional benefits of reflexology include:
- Treating arthritis
- Sinus issues
- Migraines
- Easing back and nerve pain
- Boosting the immune system
- Enhancing overall wellbeing and mood
- Improving quality of life
What to expect in your treatment
To start, your specialised reflexologist will get a full understanding of your medical history, lifestyle and specific requirements. As a compassionate and natural healer, your reflexologist will assess and then treat conditions through your body, applying pressure using thumbs and fingers on certain reflex points on your feet or hands which correspond to different parts of your body or organs.
Sessions are generally 30 or 60 minutes. Wear comfortable clothes (which you’ll keep on), just removing shoes and socks. While reflexology can be soothing, it is sometimes painful – which means your reflexologist is getting to the core of the issue – a positive step towards whole-body healing.
By balancing your body, reflexology promotes overall wellbeing from toe to head. To find out how we can help you, or to learn more about our specialised reflexologists and their customised approach make contact or book now.
