Reflexology Is Not Just One Therapy

The start of a new year will often bring fresh ideas and determination for change. Whether it be the excesses of festivities in December or a more longstanding personal goal, improved health and wellbeing is at the top of many new year lists. A healthy diet and increased exercise are, of course, essential to these aims, but introducing more self-care and ‘me time’ into your routine of self-improvement is equally important. Reducing stress and anxiety, and improving sleep quality and low mood is vital for overall wellbeing and general health. Regular sessions of reflexology* are an enjoyable and infinitely relaxing experience. They can promote the body’s own healing mechanisms and each session is unique; tailor-made to address the health concerns and requirements of each individual.

Reflexology is not just one therapy

There are many forms of reflexology, and they all work on the common principle that reflexes (pressure points) correspond to the structure, organs, and systems within the body. The aim is to bring about homeostasis, which means a state of balance that the body is constantly trying to maintain for optimal health.

What are the different types of reflexology?

Reflexology is practiced on the hands, ears, and face, but is most commonly given on the feet. Each area of work can have unique advantages. Facial reflexology can be extremely beneficial for headaches, and sinus problems, and has been recorded in helping conditions such as Bell’s Palsy, and bruxism. Working facial reflex points stimulates nerves, muscles, and tissues, and encourages better muscle tone over time. It is also deeply relaxing, and my clients regularly go to sleep during a facial reflexology treatment.

Auricular (ear) reflexology, as with other forms, works all the reflexes of the body but also provides more direct access to the Vagus nerve. Impulses along energy pathways in the body have less distance to travel to reach the brain. Ear seeds are also used on reflex points on the ear, pertaining to emotional balance.

Hand reflexology can be a stand-alone treatment or used synergistically with a foot treatment. As hands are much more accessible, I often give easy hand sequences to my clients, so they can continue the benefits of their treatment at home, between sessions.

Even foot reflexology is not just one therapy. Reflexology on the feet is the most popular form, and many specialist techniques have been developed by eminent reflexologists in our field. Throughout my initial training and numerous subsequent professional development courses over the years, I have gained qualifications to provide a wide variety of these specialisations.

Reflexology for Lymph Drainage (RLD) stimulates the lymphatic system, and is used in the management of lymphoedema and other inflammatory conditions.

Limbic Reflexology focuses on structures of the brain relating to emotional and pain responses, and how we react to the external world.

Reflexology for Menopause aims to support women through the impact of symptoms during this, often difficult, phase of life.

Fertility and Maternity Care offer techniques for balancing the endocrine and reproductive systems, used to aid fertility and provide support in pre and postnatal care.

Reflexology for Palliative Care can help with the emotional and physical consequences of dealing with life-limiting illness and support family members involved too.

Does reflexology work? All I can say is that yes it does have positive (and sometimes totally amazing) benefits for most people, but the only way to know for sure is to try it!

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*Reflexology is a complementary therapy used to support traditional medicine, but should not be relied upon as a substitute. Please consult your GP if you are concerned about a health issue.