
It is a non-invasive holistic therapy based on the principle that there are reflexes in the feet that correspond to every organ, gland and system of the body. Pressure is applied to these reflexes, using specific thumb and finger techniques. This causes physiological changes to take place in the body stimulating healing from within bringing about balance physically, emotionally and spiritually.
Reflexologists believe that the feet mirror the body. All organs, systems and glands of the body are mapped onto areas of the feet. When applying pressure to the reflexes the corresponding organ in the body (via the brain) is stimulated via electrical impulses within the nervous system, or chemical messengers, such as hormones, unblocking congestions, waking up the organs and stimulating healing.
During the first consultation the therapist takes your medical history, including questions about your lifestyle – diet, exercise, current medication, past operations, accidents and so on. A physical assessment of your feet will also be done. The therapist will then continue with the treatment using specific finger and thumb techniques to stimulate the various reflexes on the feet. Different sensations may be experienced as certain reflexes are stimulated. Some of the reflexes may be very sensitive, even painful. The treatment will mostly be very pleasurable leaving you feeling relaxed and soothed. You may experience immediate effects which is an indication that your body is responding well to the treatment. These could include nausea, dizziness, perspiring, feeling of calmness, tiredness or even emotional. The therapist will end your treatment with a gentle massage thus enhancing the body’s capacity to utilize its natural healing potential.
This will assist your therapist in forming a general picture of your overall health and lifestyle. With this information in hand she can put together a personal treatment plan that is safe, efficient and effective.
Each person responds differently to the treatment but most experiences are pleasant leaving the client relaxed, revitalised and energised. Because Reflexology activates the body’s own healing power some negative side effects are bound to be experienced. Some symptoms may worsen before they improve. This means the body is beginning to eliminate toxins and is starting to heal itself. Some of the symptoms of elimination may include increased urination which may be darker in colour and stronger in smell, flatulence or more frequent bowel movements, aggravated skin conditions, increased mucous secretion in respiratory system, dizziness, nausea, increased vaginal discharge, headaches, or migraines. Some clients may become very emotional with a strong desire to weep. All these symptoms will eventually pass as you continue your reflexology.
A reflex may be painful due to a number of reasons. You may have an injury or illness in that area or organ, there may be congestion or an energy imbalance which may need further attention. Crystal deposits on the nerve endings can cause a reflex to be very painful or it can be a normal reaction for that specific reflex. As you continue your treatments and your body becomes more balanced the reflexes will become less sensitive.
This can only be assessed after your first treatment. How many more after that is dependent on how you respond to the treatments, how frequently you have treatments and the severity of your condition. Once this has been determined, you, together with your therapist, can decide on a suitable treatment plan formulated for your individual needs. Even if it seems the problem has been corrected after the first treatment it is advisable to complete the treatment plan to ensure that the disorder does not reoccur.
As it is a non-invasive therapy, Reflexology is beneficial for almost anyone whatever the age or state of health. From the elderly who may have arthritic and mobility difficulties to babies with colic or not sleeping well, to varied acute and chronic conditions in adults and children.
No – A Reflexologist does not diagnose nor do we treat a specific disease. Reflexology is a holistic treatment therefore the entire body is stimulated during each treatment. We do not claim to cure any illness. We stimulate the body’s own healing potential which results in optimal functioning of the organs and a reduction of the symptoms relating to a disease or, in most cases, the client will get better over a period of time. It is against our scope of practice to prescribe or adjust medication.
For more information on the benefits of Reflexology please click here or to discuss how I can help you on your health and wellness journey, you’re welcome to call me on 082 871 0210 or complete my contact form and I will be in touch.
Get In Touch: For more information on the benefits of Reflexology or to discuss how I can help you on your health and wellness journey, you’re welcome to call me on 082 871 0210 or complete my contact form and I will be in touch.
Office Hours : Mon, Tues, Thu, Fri – 08h00 to 15h00 (Bryanston); Wed – 09h00 to 12h00 (Genesis Maternity Clinic)
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