Contraindications:
There are some contraindications to reflexology and these should be noted before scheduling an appointment.
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During the first trimester of pregnancy (permission should be obtained from your doctor for the second and third trimesters)
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Open cuts and sores
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Recent fractures/sprains that have not yet healed
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Edema of the feet
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Severe varicose veins of lower legs
If you have any of these contraindications, you should not book a reflexology session.
What to expect during a reflexology session:
A Reflexology session lasts 60 minutes. You will be asked to fill out a client history form which will be briefly reviewed by the reflexologist at the beginning of your session.
Any concerns you have will be discussed before the session begins.
The client relaxes on a comfortable reclining chair and enjoys the soothing sensation of sensitive practiced hands working over the reflexes on the feet. Light to medium pressure to applied to the reflexes. Hand reflexology can also be incorporated into the session. Some tender reflexes might be identified, but the session should not cause any pain.
The session leaves you feeling relaxed and energized, or sometimes sleepy, with a renewed sense of well-being.
Reasons to try reflexology:
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A reflexology session is one of the best ways to relax and release tension. Reflexology is considered by some to be the epitome of relaxing spa treatments. More upscale spas are just now offering reflexology, even though there are references to reflexology/foot work dating back 5,000 years.
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Reflexology improves circulation throughout the body without strain on the heart.
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Reflexology can sometimes relieve pain due to injury or overwork by releasing endorphins.
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There is no need to undress; just remove your shoes and socks and enjoy!
A brief history of reflexology and how it is used today:
Dr. William Fitzgerald (1872-1942) is generally credited as being the “father” of modern reflexology in the US. As a surgeon, he was looking for a way to anesthetize his patients without the use of chloroform. He observed that applying firm pressure to certain points of the hands or feet had an anesthetic effect in a remote area of the body.
Today, modernized reflexology is practiced throughout the US, Europe and Asia. Many ancient techniques are still practiced in other countries. According to clinical research done in those countries, reflexology has shown to be effective in the treatment of diabetes type II, many gastrointesetinal disorders, asthma and auto-immune disorders with repeated treatments. Many hospitals in the US offer reflexology to patients undergoing chemotherapy to relieve stress.
The US to date has yet to allocate broad based funds for this type of research; although, based on the White House Commission on Complementary and Alternative Medicine’s recommendations, funding for this type of research is under review.
What is Reflexology?
Foot and hand Reflexology is a scientific art based on the premise that there are zones and reflex areas in the feet and hands, which correspond to each body part. The physical act of applying specific pressures using thumb, finger and hand techniques result in stress reduction, which causes a physiological change in the body. There are many scientific and historic theories and definitions about reflexology. Reflexology is not only relaxing, but it also assists your body in healing at its own pace.
Reflexology is considered by some to be the epitome of relaxing spa treatments. During a reflexology session you are in reclined position, where, not only are you soothed by touch to your feet, but your auditory and olfactory senses are gently stimulated as you absorb the soothing sound of music and aromatic scents of natural oils.