About Reflexology
What is Reflexology?
Reflexology is a non-invasive, holistic complementary therapy based on the belief that zones and reflex points correspond to all the organs, glands and systems within the body. Reflexology is worked on the feet, hands and ears and some practitioners may also include work on points found on the face. Following illness, stress, injury or disease, the body is in a state of “imbalance” preventing it from functioning as it should. By applying pressure, movement and energy to the reflexes using a variety of specialised techniques, this can stimulate the body’s own healing systems to return to homeostasis and promote natural recovery, the relief of stress and feelings of well-being. Reflexology can be a wonderfully relaxing experience where you can take time out from everyday pressures.
A Brief History
Reflexology, in various forms, has been practiced for thousands of years. The earliest ‘evidence’ is shown on the tomb of an Egyptian physician called Ankhmahor, dating from 2500 BCE. Methods of working on the feet, hands and ears have been documented in many civilisations as the practice was passed along ancient trade routes. The modern therapy of reflexology was pioneered in the 1930s by Eunice Ingham. She mapped out the reflexes on the feet in detail and developed variable pressure techniques. Reflexology is now widely recognised by the medical profession and is available in many hospitals and GP surgeries. Its positive effects have been, and continue to be the subject of evidenced-based research.
What are the benefits of reflexology and can it help me?
Reflexology holistically treats the whole person and not just their symptoms. Jan places her clients at the centre of their reflexology therapy and path to recovery by creating personalised treatment plans. Reflexology can help to improve quality of life and bring comfort and relief if you are living with physical, emotional and mental health issues. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, meaning it may support traditional medical care but should not be relied upon as a substitute. Please consult your GP if you are concerned about a health issue.
Support if you are living with chronic illness
Improves the quality of your sleep
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves your emotional and mental well-being
Increases relaxation and reduces tension in the body
Reduces feelings of low mood and depression
Reflexology for Stress and Anxiety
The damaging effects of stress and how reflexology may help
Reflexology helps to return the body to a natural equilibrium, maintaining a state of homeostasis. It can be effective in reducing and controlling stress and anxiety symptoms, helping to achieve a sense of relaxation and well-being.
Jan Johnson Reflexology does not aim to diagnose, cure or prescribe. Reflexology is a complementary therapy, meaning that it may support traditional medical treatment but it should not be relied upon as a substitute. Please consult your doctor in the first instance if you are concerned about a health issue. If appropriate, you may be referred to your GP or other heath/complementary health professional.
The 'fight or flight' response
Stress is a response in the body known as ‘fight or flight’. This is automatically activated by the brain in a perceived threatening situation. Hormones such as adrenaline, noradrenaline and cortisol are released to prepare the body for physical action. The body undergoes physical changes such as increased heart rate and breathing, tense muscles and an increase in blood sugar. In addition, the digestive, immune and reproductive systems are repressed as they are not needed to remove us from danger. Please see Blog for more information and further help with stress and anxiety.
Prolonged exposure to stress can cause health problems
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Headaches
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Weakened immune system
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Heartburn
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Insomnia
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Depression
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Digestive problems
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High blood pressure
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Heart disease
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Type 2 diabetes
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Breathing problems
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Fertility problems
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Menstrual problems
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Low sex drive
About Jan Johnson
I am a Clinical Reflexologist and I was fortunate to train with Allison Walker at Contemporary Reflexology College, gaining a Level 5 Diploma in Practitioner Reflexology, which is currently the highest-level reflexology qualification in the UK. As part of this course I also qualified in Level 4 Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology. I continue to undertake further professional training to add new specialisms and techniques to my practice.
As a member of the professional organisation; the Association of Reflexologists (AoR) and registrant with the Complementary & Natural Healthcare Council (CNHC), I am committed to upholding their high standards of practice and ethics.
I gained my introduction and subsequent fascination with reflexology while receiving regular treatments during my recovery from illness. It was amazing how it helped me to relax, support my health and regain my strength and well-being. As my personal circumstances changed, this made me question my life choices. I wanted to pursue a new professional direction where I could make a positive and personal difference to other people. My reflection turned to reflexology and I thought how wonderful it would be to be able to help others as I had been, by this therapy. I sought valuable advice and guidance from my reflexologist friends and they encouraged me to ‘go for it’! I am so happy that I did, and I now have the skills and ever growing experience to help my own clients, which is incredibly rewarding. As my practice grows, the power of reflexology continues to amaze me.
WHAT CLIENTS SAY
SHARON
Jan is a warm and thorough practitioner.
After 6 sessions I rarely have any pain yet continue on an MOT basis to ensure I stay on top of it and because of the genuine benefits I receive from Jan's reflexology. Not to mention the deep relaxation and self care aspects of her treatments.
I can thoroughly recommend her as a warm, caring person and a knowledgeable and quality practitioner.
I look forward to my sessions as I know I will receive such benefits.
LORRAINE
Had a lovely reflexology session on Friday with Jan it was very relaxing and revitalising many thanks.
JENNY
I suffer from M.E.(chronic fatigue syndrome) and had a severe relapse and was left pretty much bedridden for over 3 months. Jan is wonderful and thanks to her I am starting back to work this week after 4 months! I will continue to visit her on a monthly basis for ongoing treatment as this really has had brilliant results for me. I would highly recommend both reflexology and especially Jan to anyone and would really like to thank her for helping get my life back!
CAROLINE
I went to see Jan to try and get some relief from plantar fasciitis pain in my feet. I had been suffering from it for approx 1.5 years. I had been to the doctors, tried insoles, heel supports, all sorts to no avail. I did an 8 week plan, once a week and my pain disappeared!
I was amazed. I would highly recommend Jan Johnson Reflexology. Go to see her and find out how she can help you!
HANNAH
Jan is a wonderful reflexologist. She listened to me and with careful questioning, got to the heart of my issues quickly. She built a treatment plan that really helped me. The experience was calm and her technique is fantastic. You will leave the treatment feeling restored and relaxed. I can't recommend her enough.
GAYNOR
Highly professional, very relaxing and therapeutic treatment.