Reflexology
Release and Rebalance
Reflexology is a grounding & relaxing practice that involves applied pressure to specific parts of the feet to stimulate a healing response throughout the body. Reflexology combines massage and point pressure to reduce stress, promote healing, improve circulation, and regulate metabolism. Many people report sleep improvement and emotional healing as well!
Reflexology rests on the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”), or “vital energy.” According to this belief, qi flows through each individual. When a person feels stressed, their body blocks qi. Clearing these blockages through specific points in the body will bring stress relief and relaxation.
Reflexology rests on the ancient Chinese belief in qi (pronounced “chee”), or “vital energy.” According to this belief, qi flows through each individual. When a person feels stressed, their body blocks qi. Clearing these blockages through specific points in the body will bring stress relief and relaxation.
"Several studies indicate that reflexology may reduce pain and psychological symptoms, such as stress and anxiety, and enhance relaxation and sleep."
- SOURCE: Mayo Clinic
What to expect during a Reflexology session
Your Reflexology session will begin with a conversation with your Reflexologist about your current state of health, health history and an understanding of your overall wellness goals.
If your Reflexologist chooses to work on your feet, you will lie or sit down, remaining fully clothed except for your shoes and socks. Your session will begin with a warm towel to cleanse the feet and prepare to them for your session.
If your Reflexologist chooses to work on your feet, you will lie or sit down, remaining fully clothed except for your shoes and socks. Your session will begin with a warm towel to cleanse the feet and prepare to them for your session.
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A complete reflexology therapy session uses many different techniques and includes all of the points on both feet (and perhaps the hands and ears). By working all of the points, the reflexologist addresses internal organs and glands as well as muscle groups, bones, nerve ganglions (solar plexus, brachial plexus) and nerves (sciatic) during a session.
If you have a specific condition, such as migraines, the reflexologist will carefully feel and work the area corresponding to the presenting problem. However, they will also work all areas of the foot with gentle pressure, because, according to reflexology theories, this allows the nerve pathways and congestion to release and promotes the relaxation response for the entire body. |
Experiencing Reflexology
Experiences with reflexology sessions vary from a general feeling of relaxation, to a sense of "lightness" or tingling in the body, as well as feelings of warmth, a sense of "opening," or "energy moving" from the practitioner's pressure to the specific body area or organ. There is often a physical perception of energy flowing through every organ, valve, gland, or muscle, as well as a sense of communication between each body system.
What Can Reflexology Help?
Mental/Emotional:
Mental/Emotional:
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Migraines/Headaches
- Poor circulation
- Respiratory Problems
- Asthma
- Back Pain
- Pain Management
- Poor digestion
- IBS
- Body toxicity
- Menopausal symptoms
- PMS
- Hormone Imbalances
- Infertility
Is Reflexology For Everyone?
There are some important considerations when considering Reflexology therapy. Specifically, Reflexology should be avoided for individuals with the following conditions:
- Recent broken bones and/or fractures
- Active gout in the foot
- Contagious skin disease
- Skin conditions (psoriasis, eczema, open wounds, rashes, cuts, bites, burns, etc.)
- Any untreated severe medical condition or acute pain
- Individuals under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Any form of infection, disease, or fever (including diarrhea/vomiting)
- Nervous/psychotic conditions
- Arthritis or osteoporosis
- Epilepsy
- Asthma
- Postpartum (for a period of time)
- First few days of menstruation (precaution – can lead to heavier period)
- Kidney infections
- Pinched nerves
- Sciatica
- Nervous system dysfunction (Multiple Sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, motor neurons disease)
- Hematomas
- Cancer (within 5 years or treatment/surgery)
- Pregnancy (first trimester)
- Recent operations
- Severe swelling
- Cardiovascular conditions (thrombosis, phlebitis, high blood pressure, low blood pressure, heart conditions, etc.)
What about Fertility & Prenatal Reflexology?
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Fertility Reflexology
Fertility reflexology can support your body to return to balance, heal itself naturally, conceive, as well as prepare your body for a healthy & balanced pregnancy. Fertility specific reflexology can be used alone, with other holistic sessions, or to complement medically assisted fertility treatments. **Fertility reflexology isn’t just for biological females. Up to 50% of infertility issues are male related. Fertility reflexology can benefit both partners during their fertility journey. Prenatal Reflexology Prenatal reflexology can help you maintain health and wellness during this important and sometimes challenging time. This safe and beneficial session supports your body and emotional health during this transition. Different conditions may arise during pregnancy and reflexology is a great way to restore balance, re-ground, and support your body’s natural ability to heal. |
